The history of ultrasound in gynecology 1950-1980.

The pioneers of gynecological ultrasound were active from 1950 to 1960. In this period, compound contact scanning was developed. The disciples who followed were responsible for the explosive growth that had occurred by 1975. The indications for diagnostic ultrasound in gynecology were, first, in cystic and solid masses; they increased steadily to include nonpalpable pelvic masses, ascites, ovarian tumors, cervical lesions, early pregnancy, localization of intrauterine devices, cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease and many more. The techniques also evolved from A-mode, through two-dimensional B-mode, grey tones and special probes, to guided procedures. Signs of tissue anomalies and approaches to tissue characterization were explored. Figures were established to demonstrate the usefulness of diagnostic ultrasound in gynecology in numerous clinical conditions. The review ends with some personal recollections of the early workers, a discussion of the contemporary treatment of the safety of the method and notes on some of the first textbooks.