Performance survey of ultrasound instrumentation and feasibility of routine monitoring.

Short quality control tests for ultrasound instruments were developed based on the AIUM standard 100mm test object and procedures recommended for its use. While demonstrating the tests of technologists on their instruments, the authors obtained performance data on instruments in 22 hospitals. Subsequent quality control testing on the same instruments demonstrated that manufacturer's servicemen usually had improved performance significantly in the rather large number of cases in which adjustments were indicated by initial tests. Technologists in several hospitals, as well as the authors, performed the tests routinely for extended periods of time, with a moderately high yield for detection or demonstration of malfunctions.