Medical Ultrasound Practice in Developing Countries: Example of Togo

Background: Ultrasound has become the most widely practiced medical imaging examination even in developing countries because of its non-irradiating, non-invasive nature and its relatively affordable cost. Objective: The objective of this study was to review the practice of medical ultrasound in Lome city. We carried out a descriptive cross-sectional study using the pre-established fact sheets. It took place from 16 August to 30 November 2013 in the healthcare facilities of the city of Lome. Results: A total of 47 centers were surveyed, including 14 public centers and 33 private centers. The ultrasound scanners were mostly acquired in the new state (59.6%) with only 34.1% of these ultrasound scanners equipped with the Doppler mode. There were 3 ultrasound scanners (6.4%) that had a 3D probe. Radiologists were the ones who carried out most of the ultrasound examinations in public centers, while in private they accounted for half of the performers (45.5%). Physicians enrolled in a specialty in radiology played a significant role in these private structures, accounting for 24.2% of performers. Cardiac ultrasound was performed only in 2 centers (4.2%). The ultrasound report was available in all public centers using the pre-established and standardized forms. The qualification of sonographers and the status of ultrasound scanners are relatively acceptable. Conclusion: Ultrasound scanners were mostly acquired in new condition. Radiologists remained the ones who carried out the largest number of ultrasound examination in Lome.