Ultrasound – more and more possibilities

Recent years have seen very intensive development of the technologies used in ultrasound devices. The direction of development in ultrasound technology is, on the one hand, to improve the quality, speed and accuracy of imaging and, on the other hand, to minimise costs as far as possible. Recent years have seen very intensive development of the technologies used in ultrasound devices. The development of ultrasound technology is aimed, on the one hand, at improving image quality, speed and accuracy and, on the other hand, at minimising costs as far as possible. The leading equipment manufacturers are setting the pace for changes in market standards and are improving their equipment almost every year. Progress in ultrasound technology has never been as dynamic as it is today. The main areas of development are increasing the sensitivity and range of imaging of the transducers, introducing multiple systems for forming the ultrasound beam, increasing the number of process channels and significantly increasing the image processing speed. Manufacturers are focusing on improving the devices on the one hand and developing increasingly advanced specialised software on the other, which significantly expands the possible applications of the devices. What should you look out for? The most important parameter is obtaining an image with the highest possible diagnostic value, so it is worth selecting devices based on the principle of "highest image quality in the shortest time". Better imaging is achieved when the devices use compound imaging technology, which involves crossing and merging ultrasound waves at different angles. The 2D images obtained in this way are clearer and have better-defined tissue boundaries. It is worth paying attention to the number of processing channels – the higher the device class, the more channels. In addition, the operating modes of the ultrasound device and the functions available in each mode (e.g. edge smoothing, better contrast), the number of transducer connections, their functional range, the possibility of purchasing additional transducers, and their compatibility with the device are also important. Other important factors include user-friendliness, intuitive and understandable software, additional functions such as data archiving and the option to export data to external storage media, as well as the option to connect the device to a computer network. There are situations, usually in a clinic or hospital department, where several different diagnosticians use the same ultrasound device. In such situations, it is important that the device is relatively mobile in case it needs to be transported to another room. The ability to customise the settings for each user can also be very helpful. Miniaturisation and the introduction of new useful functions for 3D probes have led to these slowly replacing 2D probes in routine examinations. However, if 2D probes appear to be sufficient, it is enough to equip the device with an application for generating 3D images from connected 2D heads. You can purchase volumetric heads for 3D/4D imaging at any time to expand the diagnostic capabilities of your device. The latest technologies to have conquered the Polish market in recent years are volume and tomography imaging, the combination of imaging and navigation, and traditional and virtual echastography. Soon, functions for eliminating noise and artefacts caused by blood flow or fatty tissue, as well as panoramic imaging technology, i.e. the construction of images that extend beyond the penetration range of the transducers, will become standard. Advantages and disadvantages of portable ultrasound devices High-quality portable devices have only appeared on the Polish market relatively recently, namely a few years ago. When deciding on a portable version, it is essential to pay attention to image quality. Unfortunately, the reduction in size of the devices sometimes comes at the expense of the most important characteristics of ultrasound devices – the speed and accuracy of imaging. Even the highest-quality portable devices cannot match the advanced parameters of stationary devices. Mobile ultrasound devices are used where fast and efficient examination is required and where transporting a stationary device is significantly more difficult or even impossible. Mobile ultrasound devices are particularly suitable for emergency rooms, general practitioners and internists, intensive care units, operating theatres and anywhere else where the doctor has to travel to the patient with their device. Mobile devices are cheaper than stationary ones, but at the same time have relatively fewer options. When choosing a mobile version, the primary consideration should be image quality, so it is worth testing devices from different manufacturers before purchasing. You should also consider the intended use of the device and how often it will be used. The more examinations are performed with the device, the more transducers are needed and the more expensive the device becomes. If you buy a device, choose one with at least two probes and a working range of at least 12 MHz, as well as harmonic imaging technology. You may also consider a device with the so-called colour Doppler option, but such devices can be up to five or six times more expensive than the cheapest basic version. It is important that the device is easy to transport – it should be lightweight (weighing no more than 7-8 kg) and start up quickly and efficiently. Also consider the battery life – currently, a minimum operating time of one hour without an external power supply is standard. Miniaturised ultrasound devices are coming onto the market. These palm-sized devices fit easily into a coat pocket and can therefore be taken anywhere. Although the scope of possible examinations does not currently extend beyond basic diagnostics, they are ideal for emergency cardiology, for example, for quickly assessing the condition of the heart. Author: Medical Online 19.09.2012