Multiple issues affecting the safe use of ultrasound in the clinical environment are discussed. Topics include an analysis of the concept of benefits versus risks, American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) evaluations, minimum threshold for thermal effects, clinical efficacy in obstetrics, education and training, and potential exposure limits.
1. American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine. Bioeffects considerations for the safety of diagnostic ultrasound. J Ultrasound Med1988;7(Suppl):S1-S38.
2.
2. Carson PL. Medical ultrasound fields and exposure measurements, in (eds). Proceedings of the Twentysecond Annual Meeting of the National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements. Bethesda, MD: NCRP Publications, 1988.
3.
3. National Institutes of Health. Diagnostic ultrasound in pregnancy: Report of a consensus development conference. Bethesda, MD: Department of Health and Human Services, 1984. DHHS, NIH Publication No. 84-667.
4.
4. Ziskin MC. The prudent use of diagnostic ultrasound. J Ultrasound Med1987;6:415-416.
