Recent technological advancements in breast ultrasound

Ultrasonics. 2016 Aug:70:183-90. doi: 10.1016/j.ultras.2016.04.021. Epub 2016 Apr 25.

Abstract

Ultrasound is becoming increasingly common as an imaging tool for the detection and characterization of breast tumors. This paper provides an overview of recent technological advancements, especially those that may have an impact in clinical applications in the field of breast ultrasound in the near future. These advancements include close to 100% fractional bandwidth high frequency (5-18MHz) 2D and 3D arrays, automated breast imaging systems to minimize the operator dependence and advanced processing techniques, such as those used for detection of microcalcifications. In addition, elastography and contrast-enhanced ultrasound examinations that are expected to further enhance the clinical importance of ultrasound based breast tumor screening are briefly reviewed. These techniques have shown initial promise in clinical trials and may translate to more comprehensive clinical adoption in the future.

Keywords: Automated breast ultrasound; Breast ultrasound; Contrast-enhanced ultrasound; Elastography.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Animals
  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Breast Neoplasms / physiopathology*
  • Elastic Modulus
  • Elasticity Imaging Techniques / instrumentation
  • Elasticity Imaging Techniques / methods*
  • Equipment Design
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement / instrumentation
  • Image Enhancement / methods
  • Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / instrumentation
  • Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted / methods*
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional / instrumentation
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional / methods*
  • Mammography / instrumentation
  • Mammography / methods*
  • Multimodal Imaging / instrumentation
  • Multimodal Imaging / methods
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Technology Assessment, Biomedical