Ultrasonography: its continuing value in diagnostic ophthalmology

This case history re-emphasizes the absolute necessity for all cases of leukokoria or opaque media, where a view of the fundus is impossible, to have preliminary "A" or "B" scan ultrasonography. In 1960 perhaps only two or three institutions had the high resolution "B" scan equipment at their disposal. Today at least 75 units are in use throughout the U.S., including a larger number of the calibrated "A" scans. In fact, ultrasound is a valuable adjunct before any cataract surgery, vitrectomies, I.O. lens implantations, or retinal detachment surgery. Ultrasound is perhaps the only non-invasive technique available today in the ophthalmological armentarium for soft tissue differentiation using acoustic wave fronts. This case amply demonstrates the legal and technical problems had the surgeon planned to perform "cataract" surgery, and possibly a corneal transplant. The anguish avoided by both the surgeon and patient is obvious.