Modern Ultrasound Diagnostic Procedures in an Interdisciplinary Ultrasound Department: Challenge and Opportunities for Radiologists Moderne Ultraschalldiagnostik in einem interdisziplinären Ultraschall- zentrum: Herausforderung und Chancen für Radiologen

Interdisciplinary ultrasound centers are typically shaped by the interaction of internal medicine, surgical, and radiology departments in an effort to provide more effective availability of ultrasound services. The integration of additional disciplines significantly expands the areas of application and services. However, there are also new challenges. Radiology at an ultrasound center plays an important role as an interface and nucleus of technical developments for image processing and transmission. Imaging documentation should be performed in DICOM format and with PACS connection. This requires corresponding techniques and standards [1–4]. Perfusion analyses and 3D als well as 4D evaluations can be performed on integrated workstations on the basis of the DICOM files. Dynamic examinations include not only color-coded duplex sonography (CCDS) and power Doppler (PD) but also contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). Moreover, new image documentation is possible as a result of image fusion with computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). CEUS and fusion can be used to allow implementation, monitoring, and postinterventional follow-up of biopsies, drains, and ablations and can also be used intraoperatively. We present our current experiences at an interdisciplinary ultrasound center (internal medicine, oncology, surgery, plastic surgery, and radiology).