Evan Boote PhD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

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Ultrasound imaging is a relatively inexpensive, low-risk application to patients, ubiquitously available in the health care setting. However, ultrasound presents a challenge to the novice user, particularly with regard to recognition of anatomic landmarks. In some situations, ultrasound imaging is not capable of resolving some structures, either due to spatial and/or contrast resolution limitations; in certain other situations, ultrasound offers a superior approach to visualizing abnormalities or the depiction of blood flow in the body. Hybrid ultrasound may be defined in a number of ways - the most likely definition would be what might be termed "fusion" imaging, where a set of image data from a second modality is imported into the ultrasound system, anatomical landmarks are established, and a fused image is displayed in real-time. Hence the advantages of the other modalities would be gained during the use of the ultrasound system. Another definition of "hybrid" may be the use of a device to depict a biopsy needle placement in real-time.  A further extension of the word "hybrid" might be  to include real-time simultaneous imaging with another modality, even a non-traditional imaging modality. This presentation will review these variations of "hybrid" ultrasound that are commercially available and in current clincal practice. However, the presentation will also cover those still in the development stage. The practical applications of these systems will be discussed, as will the limitations and restrictions on their use. Included in this will be an evaluation of cost of the system and a case-study on the use of hybrid imaging in a hospital setting.

Boote, E, Hybrid Imaging in Ultrasound.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/14019837.html