B-scan ultrasound evaluation of the pancreas. Advantages and accuracy compared to other diagnostic techniques.

Over 200 patients were examined by B-scan ultrasound for suspected pancreatic disease; in 94 cases a final diagnosis was proved. The diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound, upper gastrointestinal examination, isotope pancreatography, and arteriography is compared. The diagnostic ultrasound features of the various pancreatic disease processes are described. Pancreatic sonography provides the most accurate and least expensive method for evaluating the pancreas with no known patient morbidity. The upper gastrointestinal series and radionuclide study are complementary to sonography. Ultrasound should be the initial examination for the evaluation of patients with suspected pancreatic disease or epigastric mass.