Ultrasonic Imaging: Its Place in Medical Diagnosis with Respect to Radionuclide Scans and X-Ray Computed Tomographic Studies

Abstract

In this paper we shall present the clinicians’ view point regarding the usefulness of ultrasonic images in making a diagnosis. The diagnostic information in an ultrasound image is compared to that present in images obtained through other modalities such as conventional radiography, x-ray planar tomography, x-ray computed tomography and radionuclide scans. Examples of situations which dictate the clinical use of one or other of these modalities, and the role played by ultrasound in making the diagnosis are presented. Areas of research which may improve the diagnostic information content and make ultrasound more competitive with x-ray computed tomography and radionuclide scans are discussed.