SURVEY OF DEVELOPMENTS IN CARDIAC AND CARDIOVASCULAR ULTRASOUND IMAGING PACS REFERENCE: 43.35.-C

A survey of diagnostic ultrasound techniques as used in cardiology is presented. 2D is used in many places. 3D is gaining importance.Present 3D developments include electronic and fast rotating phased array methods for 3D imaging of the heart. Surgical views will be illustrated. Another hot item is ultrasound echo contrast, with emphasis on non-linear effects. A novel broadband transducer, combining two ceramics, will be presented. The latest Transesophogeal (TEE) ultrasound development includes high frequency pediatric multiplane probes for application in baby’s. The 48 element probe can be used in infants of 2.9 kg. to 19 kg. In IntraVascular UltraSound (IVUS) plaque geometry and stent deployment can be studied. Also mechanical properties of the arterial wall through elastography may be obtained