Book excerpt: The introduction of ultrasound has radically altered the clinical approach to patients with digestive diseases as it is now possible to observe the abdominal organs rapidly and noninvasively. This publication thoroughly covers the main applications of ultrasound in gastroenterology, with particular reference to the most recent progress in the field. The articles, contributed by leading international experts, are organized into three sections. The first section of the book focuses on the applications of transabdominal and intraoperative ultrasound in the diagnosis of diseases of the liver and pancreas. A further section deals with interventional ultrasound where the treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma by alcoholization or laser is one of the topics of interest. Recent applications of ultrasound are discussed in the final section: the study of the abdominal vessels with duplex and color Doppler receives extensive coverage and other contributions consider new developments in endoscopic ultrasound and contrast agents. Attention is also given to the use of ultrasound in patients with HIV and AIDS. Given ultrasound's importance today, this book is essential reading for radiologists, gastroenterologists, internists and surgeons.