[Discussion on the technical terms in enhancement of ultrasonography using contrast agents]

Recent advances in enhancement of ultrasonography (US) using contrast agents have been extended rapidly. However, there was no exact technical term which was received much recognition. The Japan society of ultrasonics in medicine carried out a questionnaire to 110 institutions in Japan and a symposium for the technical terms of contrast enhancement of US in the abdominal field. Based on the results of the questionnaire and the symposium, "Enhanced US" seems to be a most suitable term for the US using contrast agents. The terms of contrast effects of enhanced US for analysis are also discussed in this article.