Ultrasound in surgery

Abstract 

Ultrasound remains the corner stone of imaging despite the rapid development of other imaging modalities. Developments in ultrasound specific contrast agents has allowed functional information to be obtained particularly for liver imaging and problem solving. The role and opportunities of ultrasound contrast agents will be described. Improved technology and probe design has increased the uses and indications of ultrasound and this is particularly the case in musculoskeletal imaging where high resolution images can be provided rapidly and cheaply. The role of ultrasound in the management of breast disease is discussed as well as the uses of ultrasound in abdominal imaging. Endoscopic ultrasound has also matured in the UK over the past decade and now plays an important role in the staging of patients with known malignant disease of the oesophagus and biliary tree as well as in the investigation of benign disease of the bilary system.

Keywords: endoscopic ultrasound, ultrasound contrast agents