As a result of technological progress, ultrasonography systems are becoming smaller and more compact. The SonoSite 180PLUS measures 32 × 18 × 5 cm and weighs 2.5 kg. Its excellent portability allows neurosurgeons to perform ultrasonography anywhere in the hospital. Several probes have been developed for each organ. The C15 probe is used to evaluate thoracic and abdominal lesions. Thus, cardiac functions such as cardiac output and ejection fraction can be measured quantitatively. The L38 linear probe is useful for evaluating vascular lesion such as carotid artery stenosis. Additionally, we employ this system when performing catheterization of the central venous system. Using the C11 probe, any mass lesion can be evaluated during neurological surgery. The ultrasound image is merged with the navigation MR image, and the degree of removal can be confirmed. This small, portable ultrasonography system is convenient for evaluation of various lesions at the bedside, and also in the emergency room and operating room, yielding a great amount of information for neurosurgical management.
