ObjectiveTo explore the value of high-frequency ultrasound in the detection of metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma and displaying lesion characteristics.MethodsA total of 38 paitients with hepatocellular carcinoma satellite lesions within 40 mm of subcutaneous tissue were underwent low-frequency (1-5 MHz) and high-frequency (6-9 MHz) ultrasound. Detection rates and ultrasonic features were compared.ResultsHigh-frequency grayscale ultrasound had a higher detection rate (71.1% vs. 36.8%, P<0.001). Subgroup analysis showed higher detection rates with chemotherapy history (88.9% vs. 33.3%, P=0.002), fatty liver (71.9% vs 31.3%, P<0.001) or superficial lesion (within 20 mm, 76.5% vs 41.2%, P=0.031). High-frequency ultrasound also showed clearer margins (P=0.004) and more arterial-phase rim enhancement (P=0.007).Conclusions6-9 MHz ultrasound detects metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma, especially superficial lesions, more effectively than 1-5 MHz ultrasound and better visualizes characteristics.