The third generation ultrasound contrast agents (UCA/USCA) are more echogenic and stable, and are able to enhance the echogenicity of parenchyma on B-mode images. These microbubbles may thus show perfusion, even in such a difficult region as the myocardium.

See also History of Ultrasound Contrast Agents.

Ultrasound machines, with their various components and types, have revolutionized the field of medical imaging. These devices enable healthcare professionals to visualize internal structures, assess conditions, and guide interventions with real-time imaging capabilities. Today, medical ultrasound systems are complex signal processing machines. Assessing the performance of an ultrasound system requires understanding the relationships between the characteristics of the system, such as the point spread function, temporal resolution, and the quality of images. Image quality aspects include the detail resolution, contrast resolution and penetration. Systems with microbubble scanner modification are particularly suitable for contrast enhanced ultrasound.


In summary, ultrasound machines have diverse performance levels and corresponding price ranges, catering to various medical imaging needs. From low-performance systems with basic imaging capabilities to high-performance and premium systems with advanced features, ultrasound technology continues to advance healthcare imaging capabilities.
See also Ultrasound Physics, Handheld Ultrasound, Environmental Protection, Equipment Preparation.

In 3D ultrasound (US) several 2D images are acquired by moving the probe across the body surface or rotating inserted probes. 3D-mode uses the same basic concept of a 2D ultrasound but rather than take the image from a single angle, the sonographer takes a volume image. The volume image that is displayed on the screen is a software rendering of all of the detected soft-tissue combined by specialized computer software to form three-dimensional images.
The 3D volume rendering technique (VR) does not rely on segmentation (segmentation techniques are difficult to apply to ultrasound pictures) and makes it possible to obtain clear 3D ultrasound images for clinical diagnosis. A 3D ultrasound produces a still image. Diagnostic US systems with 3D display functions and linear array probes are mainly used for obstetric and abdominal applications. The combination of contrast agents, harmonic imaging and power Doppler greatly improves 3D US reconstructions.

3D imaging shows a better look at the organ being examined and is used for:

Fusion 3D imaging methods for generating compound images from two sets of ultrasound images (B-mode and Doppler images) enable the observation of the structural relationships between lesions and their associated blood vessels in three dimensions (maximum intensity projection).

From ALOKA Co., Ltd.;
'The ProSound SSD-4000 utilizes the most advanced acoustic technologies available today, and its multidisciplinary technology architecture enables it to offer great versatility and flexibility over a wide range of clinical applications.
With its new-generation, front-end technology including a 12-bit A/D converter, the ProSound SSD-4000 offers superior contrast resolution−especially when compared to 10-bit systems.'

(AUS) Abdominal ultrasound, also known as abdominal sonography, is a medical imaging technique that focuses on the visualization and assessment of the abdominal organs. While 'abdominal ultrasound' is the commonly used term, there are alternative terms that can be used to refer to this imaging modality: (TAE) transabdominal echography, abdominal ultrasonography, sonogram, FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma).
Abdominal ultrasound imaging is an invaluable clinical tool for identifying the underlying cause of abdominal pain. An abdominal ultrasound examination encompasses a comprehensive evaluation of the liver, gallbladder, biliary tree, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, and abdominal blood vessels. It is a cost-effective, safe, and non-invasive medical imaging modality that is typically utilized as the initial diagnostic investigation.
Advanced ultrasound techniques, such as high-resolution ultrasound, endoscopic ultrasound, and contrast-enhanced Doppler, further enhance the detection of small lesions and provide detailed information for precise diagnosis.
To prepare for an abdominal ultrasound, it is recommended to have nothing to eat or drink for at least 8 hours, starting from midnight the night before the examination.

Indications:
FAST (Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma) is a rapid diagnostic test used for trauma patients. It sequentially evaluates the presence of free fluid in the pericardium (hemopericardium) and in four specific views of the abdomen. These views include the right upper quadrant (RUQ), left upper quadrant (LUQ), subcostal, and suprapubic views. They aid in identifying hemoperitoneum in patients with potential truncal injuries. The space between the liver and the right kidney (RUQ), known as Morison's pouch, is a location where intraperitoneal fluid can accumulate.
Emergency abdominal ultrasonography is indicated in cases of suspected aortic aneurysm, appendicitis, biliary and renal colic, as well as blunt or penetrating abdominal trauma. It plays a crucial role in the timely assessment and management of these conditions, providing critical information to guide appropriate treatment decisions.

See also Handheld Ultrasound, Pelvic Ultrasound, Pregnancy Ultrasound, Prostate Ultrasound, Interventional Ultrasound and Pediatric Ultrasound.