[Ultrasound--already clinically relevant?].

The rapid development of Quantitative Ultrasound (QUS) methods in recent years allows to use these devices in a clinical setting. Their primary role is the assessment of fracture risk due to osteoporosis. Further investigations are required for use of QUS for monitoring and diagnostic purposes. Differences between the QUS parameters, Speed of Sound (SOS) and Broadband Ultrasound Attenuation (BUA), between different measurement sites and measurement technology need to be appreciated. Consequently, QUS devices need to be validated individually. In addition, adequate quality assurance measures need to be implemented. QUS and bone densitometry have different complementing features and both should find their place in the clinical arena. These recent developments open up the opportunity to reduce the number of fractures by targeted diagnostic assessments which should lead to medical progress and should also bring along socio-economical advantages.