Diagnostic ultrasound for developing countries

The relevant characteristics in the developing countries are the lack of technological and organizational infrastructure, the lack of appropriate technology implementation programs as well as the lack of well-trained specialists. Some of our efforts should be redirected towards the appropriate introduction and application of medical technology in developing countries.
Ultrasound is being used at an ever increasing rate for diagnostic purposes in developing countries. However, it is also obvious that in the most parts of the world, the availability of ultrasound facilities is relatively poor or absent. On the other hand, the diagnostic problems for which ultrasound is particularly suited are closely related to the requirements of developing countries, viz. obstetrics and many parasitic diseases, and this is therefore obvious that this technology should have a higher priority in such countries. When used rationally and with appropriate technology it seems certain to become of increasing importance to developing countries where completing more expensive imaging modalities such as MRI or digital radiography cannot replace its wide scale use. Furthermore, as already mentioned the usefulness of any ultrasound appliance depends on great extent on the skill and experience of the operator. Qualified obstetricians are not available in many parts of the world and it is impossible to achieve an adequate standard by self-learning and/or reading. The study of books and stored images can help but does not replace "hands-on" experience. In particular, the affective use of an ultrasound scanner is veiy dependent on the skill of the operator. Therefore, training for ultrasonic diagnostic must be focused both on the sonologist themselves and on the community as a whole.