[Up to date technologies in ultrasound imaging]

The rapid innovation rate of medical ultrasound devices involves continuously new methods in diagnostic sonography. These techniques permit higher resolutions and increased contrast for expressive diagnosis and more reliable results. But the broad spectrum of new techniques and methods also confronts the user with higher requirements in training and application. Knowledge about the mode of operation is helpful for the selection of the right procedure and the proper application of the methods. This article describes a number of new technologies and principles for the design of scan heads, the generation of ultrasound pulses and fast imaging procedures. The ideas behind these techniques are explained along with the connected advantages and drawbacks.