The Use of Diagnostic Ultrasound in Brain Disorders

Abstract

Ultrasonic investigation of the brain had its beginning in 1942. The original through-transmission method could not overcome interference from the skull and was abandoned. The pulse-echo method, used first for detecting flaws in industrial materials, was introduced into neurologic diagnosis in 1950 by French, Wild, and Neal. Today, widespread application of diagnostic ultrasound to neurologic disorders creates the need for a primer on ultrasonic methods, and Grossman's book serves the purpose. In the first 50 pages the author provides chapters on basic principles, equipment and techniques, terminology, and historical development of medical ultrasonics. Brevity and clarity characterize this introductory material. Succeeding chapters treat A-scope, B-scope, and B-scan sonoencephalography; in each instance the abnormal findings follow the normal. The author, having an interest in both techniques, strains to relate electroencephalography to sonoencephalography. The extravagance of letting illustrations occupy less than one fourth of otherwise blank pages bothers this reviewer, all the