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How safe is diagnostic ultrasonography?
Canadian Medical Association Journal
|August 15, 1984
Summary
Diagnostic ultrasound (US) is generally considered safe for patients, with no reported harmful effects in humans. However, further research is needed to fully understand potential long-term biological impacts.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Biophysics
- Diagnostic Medicine
Background:
- Concerns exist among healthcare professionals and patients regarding the safety of diagnostic ultrasonography.
- Existing evidence on the biological effects of diagnostic ultrasound exposure needs comprehensive review.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current evidence on the immediate and potential long-term biological effects of diagnostic ultrasound exposure.
- To address safety concerns surrounding diagnostic ultrasonography in clinical settings.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of published scientific literature.
- Analysis of studies investigating biological effects of pulsed ultrasound on human subjects.
Main Results:
- No immediate harmful effects have been reported in fetuses, children, or adults from diagnostic pulsed ultrasound use.
- Current data does not conclusively determine the long-term biological consequences of diagnostic ultrasound exposure.
Conclusions:
- Diagnostic ultrasonography appears safe in the short term based on available evidence.
- Further research and ongoing monitoring are essential to fully ascertain the long-term safety of diagnostic ultrasound.