Ultrasound refers to sound waves with frequencies above the range of human hearing (typically above 20 kHz). These high-frequency acoustic waves have unique properties that make them invaluable in medical imaging and therapeutic applications.
How Ultrasound Works:
- Ultrasound devices emit pulses of high-frequency sound into the body.
- These sound waves travel through tissues and reflect off boundaries between different types of tissues or structures.
- The reflected waves (echoes) are detected and processed to create real-time images of internal organs, blood flow, or developing fetuses.
Advantages:
- Non-invasive and safe: Ultrasound uses no ionizing radiation, unlike X-rays.
- Provides detailed images of soft tissues, muscles, and blood vessels.
- Can capture motion such as heartbeats or blood flow in Doppler ultrasound.
Therapeutic Uses:
- Focused ultrasound can be used to break kidney stones or treat tumors by heating and destroying targeted tissue without surgery.
- Used in physical therapy to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation.
Applications:
- Prenatal imaging to monitor fetal development.
- Cardiology to assess heart function.
- Musculoskeletal diagnosis for injuries or abnormalities.
- Targeted treatments in oncology and pain management.
Ultrasound harnesses high-frequency sound waves to provide safe, effective, and versatile tools for both diagnosing and treating medical conditions.