Ultrasonic diagnostics: a look into the future

The widespread introduction of ultrasonic diagnostics will depend upon the availability of simple-to-use, cost effective instruments producing results which are easily interpreted. There is scope for improvement in conventional two-dimensional scanning systems. Real-time display would allow the operator more effectively to interact with the machine. The identification of tissues may become possible. Blood flow volumes may be measured by the Doppler method, and hybrid Doppler/pulse-echo systems may have applications in the study of cardiovascular disease. Monitoring of foetal breathing may become routine. Time delay spectrometry holds some promise, but holography does not. Piezo-electric plastic transducers may be introduced.