Though generally deemed safe, high-intensity focused-ultrasound ablation of liver and pancreas cancers can lead to delayed complications. According to Korean researchers, practitioners should be aware of—and watch closely for—local and systemic post-HIFU side effects several years down the road.

Breast cancer detection rates increase substantially when women at high risk and those with dense breasts undergo mammography and ultrasound annually, according to a study presented Wednesday at the 2009 RSNA meeting. MRI is an even more effective technique when used with mammography, but only for women who are at high risk for the condition.

Targeted breast ultrasound is a safe and effective alternative to biopsies, and it can be used by radiologists to alleviate anxiety that patients may have about breast cancer screening, according to two studies presented Wednesday at the 2009 RSNA meeting.

In an ironic twist for radiology, effective imaging of skin cancers has just been accomplished by none other than the imaging modality in closest contact with the skin: ultrasound.

SuperSonic Imagine returned to the RSNA exhibit floor with FDA clearance to market its Aixplorer ultrasound system in the U.S.

Ultrasound elastography could be an effective means of reducing unnecessary breast biopsy, according to an ongoing study presented Monday at the 2009 RSNA meeting.

Despite challenges, ultrasound remains useful in obese trauma patients. Using the lowest frequency ultrasound probe along with tissue harmonic imaging improves image quality, according to an education exhibit presented at RSNA 2009.

Miniaturization gives portable units functions once available only in cart-based systems.