Sonography has been a valuable method of imaging the body for many years. New ultrasound technology has revolutionised the clinical management and follow up of patients. One of the most important reasons sonography is so attractive is its lack of ionizing radiation and ease of use.
Sonography can provide clinically useful information including an accurate morphological and hemodynamic evaluation without clinically significant biologic effects on the patient. Ultrasound contrast agents used in sonography have enhanced the ability to demonstrate microvascular organisation and parenchymal perfusion, which are important parameters in the assessment of malignant tumors and their response to therapy.
Over the past years substantial advances in ultrasound technology improved spatial resolution, data processing and thus image quality of this non invasive procedure and therefore further broadened its application.
In spite of impressive advances in technology, ultrasound remains a highly operator dependent technique. Appropriate training and continuing practice is therefore essential in order to guarantee safety and a high quality standard.
