Dense breast tissue can hide cancers in mammograms in about half of women. Supplemental imaging is often needed to accurately diagnose these patients, avoid false positives and avoid needless tissue biopsies. Breast ultrasound and breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to see through dense tissue to better identify cancers and avoid the need for many biopsies, however, MRI offers more specificity.  

Recent advances in ultrasound image systems seen over the past year include the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), automation of functions and measurements, introduction of very specialized tool sets, the rapid growth in point-of-care systems, improved ergonomics, and on the horizon, the development of therapeutic ultrasound systems for cardiovascular and cancer therapies.