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Ultrasound & Pain Disorders

- Summary
- About ultrasound
- Types and differences
- Therapeutic uses of ultrasound
- Before the test
- During and after
- Potential risks
- Ongoing research
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
Vikas Garg, M.D., MSA

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Potential risks with ultrasound

In recent years, a trend of nonmedical ultrasound has arisen. Many facilities offer portraits or videos of unborn babies as mementos for expectant parents. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has advised against these nonmedical ultrasounds. They are often performed by untrained individuals who may use a sound frequency that is too high or a duration that is too long to be safe. Recent research on animals indicates that excessive exposure to ultrasound may hinder fetal development.

However, in extensive studies no risks associated with properly conducted medical diagnostic ultrasound have been documented. These ultrasounds are considered to be extremely safe, with no harmful side effects associated with this procedure. Unlike x-rays, there is no exposure to radiation during an ultrasound. This test is a noninvasive or minimally invasive procedure that is widely available, easy to use and causes little patient discomfort.

Ultrasound therapy can pose some risks, such as burns from misuse. However, such problems are uncommon.

Ongoing research regarding ultrasound

Researchers are working on improving the images produced by ultrasound to increase diagnostic accuracy. Three-dimensional ultrasound shows promise in helping to detect breast abnormalities in younger women, whose breast tissue tends to be denser. In addition, Doppler ultrasound techniques can help reveal enlarged blood vessels that may be associated with an abnormal mass.

Other advances include:

A new device called a sonic flashlight uses a 2-inch ultrasound monitor to guide placement of catheters into blood vessels.
Scientists are improving ultrasound contrast media to enhance detection of cancer and other conditions.
High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is being developed as a treatment for tumors, prostate disorders, bleeding (due to trauma or surgery), blood clots, atrial fibrillation (a type of abnormal heartbeat), thyroid nodules and other conditions.
Cardiologists are calling for adoption of a recently developed screening method for heart attacks. The test uses CAT scan (computed axial tomography) to measure calcium in the coronary arteries and ultrasound to reveal arterial plaque and thickness of arterial walls.
Diabetes researchers are refining use of ultrasound to guide minimally invasive injections of insulin-producing pancreatic cells in people with type 1 diabetes..