The Pros And Cons Of Ultrasound

Although background information proves that ultrasound is a relatively safe and effective imaging tool there are still some complications during the procedure. Sonography is a safe and effective imaging tool, but the machines, “do not present this information in a manner that is easily accessed or understood by the operator” (Alexander 19). Ultrasound imaging can be difficult to understand because the procedure uses little to no radiation, for penetrating thick layers of human tissue can be difficult. Shallow penetration of human tissue leads to a poor quality images; making images hard to characterize or diagnose. A Major difficulty in ultrasound is most of the, “information on biological effects of ultrasound on humans is undiscovered” (Alexander

Risks can occur if the technician does not consider scan time on a particular tissue; scanning a piece of tissue for a long period of time “the more likely the volume of tissue scanned may experience biological effects” (Alexander 17). Scanning a particular area for a long period of time can lead to physical pain, dizziness, and nausea. Operators are careful about how long they scan for; ultrasound technicians should only scan “as long as necessary to acquire the appropriate diagnostic information” (Alexander 17). Technicians only scan for a short period of time because the long term effects of ultrasound is still unknown. Since risks can occur from long scanning periods, “More physicians involvement, not less, is needed to ensure prudent use of this technology” (Alexander 2). With the participation of more technicians risks of side effects can be lessened to almost zero if each operator keeps their scanning time at a

In most cases, factors “such as output levels and transmission frequency as well as operator associated factors impact the patient’s safety” (Alexander 17). If ultrasound levels and frequencies were regulated, less risks for the patients undergoing scanning would occur. Operators have a huge impact on patients safety because they are the ones that should keep all of the factors regulated, so the process can be as safe as possible. A lot of factors go into the risks of ultrasound such as the “intensity or the rate of energy flow through a unit area” (Alexander 16). Ultrasound can be a safe process if the technician follows the rules and regulations of all the possible factors that could make the imaging risky. Since regulations can help decrease the risks of ultrasound action is being taken in some states “by creating regulations to control the distribution and use of ultrasound technology” (Alexander 30). With the help of states making regulations for the levels and frequencies of scanning, ultrasound can continue to be one of the safest imaging processes in the medical