The application of real-time ultrasound imaging during surgical procedures.

Operative ultrasound using real-time high resolution B-mode ultrasound scanning is a practical and useful diagnostic aid. At operations upon the biliary tract, pancreas and blood vessels, ultrasound had a favorable impact upon surgical management. When similar operative roentgenographic studies were available, operative ultrasound compared favorably with both operative cholangiography and arteriography. Problems with the lack of familiarity of the surgeon with the performance and interpretation of imaging ultrasound and lack of specifically dedicated ultrasound instruments need to be resolved to increase and improve the use of this potentially helpful aid to surgical diagnosis during operation.