Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 14, 2026
07:52
Pipeline for Planning and Execution of Transcranial Ultrasound Neuromodulation Experiments in Humans
Published on: June 28, 2024
Ultrasound bioeffects and safety
1Joint Department of Physics, Institute of Cancer Research, Royal Marsden Hospital, Sutton, Surrey SM2 5PT, UK. Gail.terHaar@icr.ac.uk
Summary
Ultrasound induces biological effects through thermal and mechanical mechanisms. Mechanical effects, driven by gas presence like in microbubble contrast agents, are key to understanding ultrasound safety.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Medical Imaging
- Acoustics
Background:
- Ultrasound energy can interact with biological tissues.
- Understanding these interactions is crucial for safe medical applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the primary mechanisms of ultrasound-induced biological effects.
- To discuss the role of gas-related phenomena in these effects.
- To evaluate the implications for ultrasound safety.
Main Methods:
- Review of established biophysical principles of ultrasound interaction.
- Analysis of thermal and mechanical bio-effects.
- Contextualization of gas-related phenomena (acoustic cavitation, microbubbles).
Main Results:
- Ultrasound bio-effects are categorized as thermal or mechanical.
- Mechanical effects are predominantly linked to gas presence.
- Acoustic cavitation and microbubble contrast agents exemplify gas-mediated effects.
Conclusions:
- The presence of gas is central to ultrasound's mechanical bio-effects.
- Understanding these mechanisms is vital for ensuring ultrasound safety in medical practice.
Related Concept Videos
01:17Ultrasonography
Ultrasonography is an imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the body's internal structures. It is a non-invasive and safe procedure that does not involve the use of ionizing radiation, making it widely used in various medical fields. Ultrasonography is used to study heart function, blood flow in the neck or extremities, certain conditions such as gallbladder disease, and fetal growth and development.
During an ultrasonography procedure, a handheld device called a...
During an ultrasonography procedure, a handheld device called a...
01:20Ultrasound I: Abdominal Ultrasonography
Introduction:
Abdominal ultrasonography, commonly known as abdominal ultrasound, is a vital, non-invasive medical imaging technique widely used in healthcare.
Procedure:
This diagnostic tool allows the clinician to visually inspect internal structures within the abdomen, including vital organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, and spleen.
The abdominal ultrasound process begins with applying a special gel to the patient's skin over the abdomen. This gel enhances the...
Abdominal ultrasonography, commonly known as abdominal ultrasound, is a vital, non-invasive medical imaging technique widely used in healthcare.
Procedure:
This diagnostic tool allows the clinician to visually inspect internal structures within the abdomen, including vital organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, and spleen.
The abdominal ultrasound process begins with applying a special gel to the patient's skin over the abdomen. This gel enhances the...
01:25Ultrasound II: Endoscopic Ultrasound and FibroScan
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) and FibroScan are valuable diagnostic tools in gastroenterology and hepatology, each with specific applications and techniques.
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS):
Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS):
01:19Assessing Blood pressure using a doppler ultrasound
To obtain accurate blood pressure measurements in clinical settings, especially when traditional methods are insufficient, healthcare professionals utilize the Doppler ultrasound technique. This method uses high-frequency sound waves to detect blood flow within the arteries, which is crucial for patients with conditions that complicate circulatory system assessment.
Pre-Procedural Guidelines for Doppler Ultrasound Blood Pressure Assessment:
Preparation of Equipment:
Pre-Procedural Guidelines for Doppler Ultrasound Blood Pressure Assessment:
Preparation of Equipment:
01:24Imaging Studies II: Ultrasonography
IntroductionUltrasonography, or renal ultrasound, is a noninvasive medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and surrounding tissues.Indications for Urinary System UltrasonographyUrinary system ultrasonography is indicated in various clinical scenarios, such as:Kidney Stones (Urolithiasis): To detect and monitor the size and presence of kidney or urinary tract stones.Hydronephrosis: To assess the dilation of the renal pelvis and...