Since ultrasonography equipment was fully digitalized, the resolution performance has considerably improved, and examination techniques, including elastography, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, fusion imaging and speckle tracking imaging, have been developed. The examination has been applied to various clinical settings from general checkups and close examinations to aiding medical procedures, proving its usability in emergencies and patient bedsides as well as examination rooms. Ultrasonography requires diversified comprehension and techniques, but in most cases, it highly depends on the abilities of lab technicians. The Japan Society of Ultrasonics in Medicine has launched a system to certify skillful technicians, which makes them highly motivated to play active roles in clinical medicine. In the future, new examination techniques and methods are expected to be developed, and we, the technicians, must continue our efforts in the quest for new knowledge.
