Recent advances in ultrasound: high-resolution imaging of superficial structures.

In the past few years, sophisticated ultrasound systems specifically designed for the evaluation of superficial organs and structures have been developed. These "high-resolution" scanners are particularly well suited to diagnostic imaging in the neck. This review summarizes current clinical applications of this evolving technology and highlights initial experience with a prototype scanner that is now commercially available. Particular attention is directed to high-resolution ultrasonography of the thyroid and parathyroid glands, the extracranial carotid arteries, and neoplastic and inflammatory masses of the neck.U