Ultrasonic scanning of the pancreas.

The use of ultrasonic scanning in diagnosis of pancreatic disease is reviewed. A procedure for the examination of the pancreas with a compound scanning technique and the ultrasonic appearance of the normal and diseased pancreas is described. Diffuse or localized enlargement can be demonstrated and the latter be differentiated as to whether it is solid or cystic lesion. Percutaneous fine needle aspiration biopsy of solid lesions and percutaneous puncture of cysts can be performed with great accuracy under the guidance of ultrasound. Differential diagnosis and liminations in pancreatic scanning are discussed.