Ultrasound contraindications:
As ultrasound can be used to scan and treat in a variety of formats the contraindications are different depending on which type of ultrasound you are using.
As an example ultrasound to scan in pregnancy is used worldwide. However ultrasound for treatment should not be used in pregnancy.
Another specific example – ultrasound can be used to treat fractures (Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound or LIPUS). However ultrasound that generates heat (diathermy) should not be used over fractures.
As a general rule Therapeutic ultrasound should not be used in the following situations:
- Tumors/Cancer/Rapidly Dividing Tissues:
- Diagnosed or suspected. The increased cellular activity could lead to increased growth.
- Skeletal Immature Children:
- Ultrasound over growth plates may cause problems with growth.
- During pregnancy:
- As with most modalities the risk of checking how safe ultrasound would be is outweighed by the risks. Hence it should be avoided.
- Near the eyes:
- The eyes and particularly the retina and lens may be damaged by ultrasound.
- Areas around the heart and pacemakers:
- The electrical signals around the heart are easily interrupted. Pacemakers may be similarly affected.
- Over reproductive organs:
- As per pregnancy the effects of ultrasound on the reproductive organs is not fully investigated so should be avoided.
- Decreased thermal sensitivity:
- As ultrasound will often generate increased temperature you need your patient to be able to tell you if it is burning.
- Metal Implants:
- Continuous ultrasound can affect the device e.g. heat a hip/knee replacement or more specifically the cement in cemented join
- Vascular problems:
- Heat may not be disipated correctly.
This is not an exhaustive list as each application will have it’s own individual indications and contraindications. Check with the manufacturer of your device if unsure. Most manufacturers have clinical teams to help.