ULTRASONOGRAPHY OF THE HUMAN STOMACH

Improved technology and new systems have expanded the possibilities of using ultrasound in clinical gastroenterology. Methods: Conventional real-time ultrasound was applied to the stomach in order to study moto r activity and accommodation to meals. The antrum was imaged by variou s modalities of two- and three-dimensional ultrasonography, while dupl ex sonography was used for studying transpyloric dow. Miniature ultras ound probes and echo-endoscopes were employed for endoscopic ultrasoun d. Results: The examinations provided new information about contractio ns, distension, co-ordination of movements, and flow. Patients with fu nctional dyspepsia were characterized by rapid emptying of the proxima l stomach, wide gastric antrum, early commencement of transpyloric flo w, and epigastric discomfort following ingestion of a meat soup. Endos copic ultrasonography exposed detailed images of the gastric wall and adjacent structures of great importance in clinical decision-making. C onclusions: The new ultrasound methods have improved our diagnostic ca pabilities and opened new promising possibilities for further research in the held of motility.