Ultrasound 2020-Diagnostics & Therapy: On the Way to Multimodal Ultrasound: Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS), Microvascular Doppler Techniques, Fusion Imaging, Sonoelastography, Interventional Sonography

Background Ultrasound as a non-ionizing imaging procedure is one of the most important diagnostic procedures in everyday clinical practice. The technology is widely used. Due to constant technical innovations, sonographic procedures, such as contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), sonoelastography, new microvascular Doppler modalities and, as an example of interventional procedures, sonographically controlled microwave ablation (MWA), are becoming increasingly important in diagnostic imaging and interventional medicine alongside CT and MRI. However, this also requires greater expertise, specialization and qualification on the part of users. Method This review article provides information about the range of technical innovations in ultrasound in recent years and describes the underlying technology, the clinical applications, and their diagnostic value. These are presented in the context of the current literature, explaining their advantages and disadvantages and their clinical value. Results and Conclusion Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS), microvascular Doppler modalities, fusion imaging and elastography complement B-scan ultrasound and conventional Doppler procedures for various problems. Microwave ablation (MWA) has a firm place as an ablative procedure for local tumor therapy in different organ systems and can be performed under ultrasound guidance. Thanks to new developments, the possibilities of ultrasound are now greater than ever. Knowledge of the technology, indications, and possible applications of newer procedures is essential for adequate patient care.