B - scan ultrasonography of the anterior segment of the eye MALCOLM

B-scan ultrasonography is now widely used in ophthalmology for investigation of orbital lesions and posterior segment lesions when direct visualisation is prevented by opacity in the ocular media. Most authors have concentrated on ultrasonic demonstration of posterior segment lesions, but the separation of diseases of anterior and posterior segments is largely artificial. The present study has perpetuated this division, but in an attempt to demonstrate the diagnostic value of ultrasound in involvement of the anterior segment. The normal practice of this laboratory has been to include the cornea, iris, and lens on ultrasonograms to aid orientation of B-scan pictures by clinicians. This has led to an increasing demand for information on anterior segment lesions alone. The difficulties of ultrasonic visualization of the anterior segment will be considered. The demand for anterior segment ultrasound led to an appraisal of the problems, and the experience gained in the examination of the first 500 patients has led to the development of a satisfactory routine. Cases are presented to illustrate the use of conventional ultrasonic equipment in the management of patients with anterior segment disease.