Quality control in ultrasound: principal recommendations perspective

Abstract

Introduction: Sonography is an imaging method with several advantages; it is a noninvasive and painless technique, with an enormous daily applicability, and its technology is widespread. However, ultrasound quality control is lacking. Since ultrasounds are operator dependent, different measurements of the same area or anatomical region can occur, as well as errors caused by the lack of technology management. The aim of this literature review is to evaluate the existing recommendations regarding the quality control of the diagnostic ultrasound imaging, describing the main quality control tests and comparing the quality control indicators, which already exist for ultrasound. Methods: A systematic search was performed on Pubmed, with only studies in English, Spanish and Portuguese being considered, over a 10-year period. Eligible studies were complete articles, publications directly related to the object of study, review studies and guidelines. Results: A total of 45 studies were retrieved and 3 articles met the inclusion criteria. Additionally, 55 protocols and guidelines were retrieved. The need to create quality indicators for ultrasound equipment to obtain an optimized image is of great importance. There are a few studies about quality control in ultrasound.  The quality control of ultrasound equipment promotes relevant indicators to medical diagnosis. Conclusions: The range of recommendations from various representative entities, medical societies and regulatory entities, establishes the minimum conditions for the proper functioning of ultrasound equipment, verifying the importance of the constant maintenance of the quality control of diagnostic ultrasound imaging.