Category Archives: Therapeutic

Ultrasound’s Hidden Superpowers and Why We Celebrate Them Every October

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Every October, the medical imaging community comes together to observe Medical Ultrasound Awareness Month (MUAM), a period dedicated to raising public understanding of the ultrasound’s vital role in healthcare. Sponsored by organizations such as the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM), the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS), the American Society of Echocardiography (ASE), Cardiovascular Credentialing International (CCI), the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS), and the Society for Vascular Ultrasound (SVU), MUAM seeks to dispel the common misconception that ultrasound is mainly for pregnancy and to shine a light on its many other life-changing uses.

While many people immediately think of fetal imaging when they hear “ultrasound,” that’s only one of many applications. In fact, ultrasound helps patients at every stage of life, from newborns to seniors, across numerous medical fields. MUAM is a perfect time to celebrate the often-unseen breadth of ultrasound and the professionals who use it.

Why a Special Month for Ultrasound?

Ultrasound is safe, widely available, and cost-effective. Because it doesn’t rely on ionizing radiation (as with X-rays or CT scans), it offers a gentler imaging option, particularly for soft tissues.

The purpose of MUAM is to encourage professionals to educate patients, colleagues, and the public about how ultrasound supports diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment across a diversity of conditions.

Beyond Babies: Diverse Applications of Medical Ultrasound

Here’s a look at just a few of the many ways ultrasound is used outside obstetrics:

1. Cardiac / Echocardiography

  • Ultrasound is widely used to visualize the heart’s structure and function, assess valve integrity, detect fluid around the heart (pericardial effusion), and monitor things like left ventricular ejection fraction.
  • Doppler ultrasound can also show blood flow velocities, helping to detect stenosis or regurgitation in valves.

2. Vascular and Circulatory Imaging

  • Doppler vascular ultrasound can assess veins and arteries, detecting blockages, clots (eg, deep vein thrombosis), or stenosis.
  • It’s used to examine carotid arteries (for stroke risk), peripheral arteries (leg circulation), and vascular grafts.

3. Abdominal and Pelvic Imaging

  • Ultrasound is often used to evaluate organs like the liver, gallbladder, spleen, kidneys, pancreas, and bladder.
  • It can detect gallstones, kidney stones, hydronephrosis, liver masses, or fluid collections (eg, ascites).
  • In the pelvis outside pregnancy, it helps assess uterine/ovarian pathology, fibroids, pelvic fluid, or masses.

4. Musculoskeletal (MSK) Imaging

  • Ultrasound is used to image muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and nerves.
  • It helps in diagnosing tendon tears, bursitis, muscle strain, nerve entrapment (eg, carpal tunnel), and joint inflammation.
  • It also guides injections or aspirations.

5. Pediatric Imaging

  • In infants and children, ultrasound is often the first-line imaging for soft tissues, head/neck, hips (developmental dysplasia), and neonatal brain (via fontanelles).
  • Because it’s radiation-free, it’s especially favorable for young patients.

6. Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS)

  • In emergency, critical care, and bedside settings, physicians use handheld or portable ultrasound to rapidly evaluate ailments such as fluid around the lungs (pleural effusion), free fluid in the abdomen, cardiac tamponade, or guidance during central line placement.
  • This real-time use can expedite diagnosis and treatment.

7. Interventional / Intraoperative Ultrasound

  • Surgeons sometimes use ultrasound during procedures to locate lesions, guide resections, or assist in biopsies or ablations.
  • Interventional radiologists may use ultrasound guidance for needle placements (biopsy, drainage) and local therapies.

8. Therapeutic Ultrasound & Special Applications

  • Beyond imaging, ultrasound has therapeutic uses (eg, high-intensity focused ultrasound, ultrasound-assisted drug delivery).
  • In neurology and neuroscience, for example, therapeutic ultrasound is being explored in treating conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or other brain disorders.
  • In space medicine, ultrasound is one of the few imaging options available aboard the International Space Station (ISS). As part of the Advanced Diagnostic Ultrasound in Microgravity project, astronauts use ultrasound to assess various organ systems in microgravity.

How You Can Support Ultrasound Awareness
(Especially This October)

  • Share knowledge: If you’re a clinician or educator, talk with colleagues or patients about the many roles of ultrasound.
  • Use social media: Companies and organizations often use hashtags like #MUAM2025 to share educational images, infographics, or stories.
  • Celebrate sonographers and ultrasound technologists: Recognize the skill, dedication, and meticulous work of these professionals.
  • Invite engagement: Host a webinar, post Q&A content, or distribute simple “Did you know?” facts about ultrasound to patients.

Final Thoughts

Medical Ultrasound Awareness Month is more than a promotional event. It’s an opportunity to correct a common misconception: ultrasound is not just for pregnancy. From the heart to the knees to the kidneys, even to outer space, ultrasound plays a vital, versatile role in modern medicine.

Let’s use October’s spotlight to help people see inside, not just for babies but for better health at every age.

Cynthia Owens, BA, is the Publications Coordinator for the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM).

Logo of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) featuring the words 'Association for Medical Ultrasound' and 'American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine' in blue.

Focused Ultrasound as a Therapeutic Tool

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Ultrasound, long regarded as a diagnostic mainstay, is now poised to reshape how the medical community approaches treatment, particularly in the field of neurology. In a keynote presentation at the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) annual meeting, Dr. Ali Rezai of West Virginia University offered a compelling overview of how focused ultrasound is rapidly gaining traction as a therapeutic tool. His message was clear: the future of ultrasound will not be limited to imaging. It will play an increasingly vital role in treating complex brain disorders.

Used with permission from AuntMinnie.com

The use of focused ultrasound, whether high- or low-intensity, is opening new avenues in managing diseases like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, and even addiction. These technologies deliver targeted soundwaves to precise regions of the brain, allowing clinicians to modify neural activity, open the blood-brain barrier for drug delivery, or ablate diseased tissue, all without a surgical incision.

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), which uses frequencies ranging from 20 kHz to 200 MHz, is already being used to treat patients with movement disorders such as essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease. The procedure is performed under MRI guidance, with patients wearing a specialized helmet containing around 1,000 ultrasound transducers. These transducers concentrate energy on specific brain structures involved in abnormal motor control. According to Dr. Rezai, patients often see immediate improvement, regaining function within hours and returning home the same day, an outcome that significantly reduces both recovery time and risk.

On the other end of the spectrum, low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU) is being investigated for its ability to transiently open the blood-brain barrier, which is a major challenge in the treatment of central nervous system conditions. This technique allows therapeutic agents that would otherwise be blocked to reach their targets more effectively. One area of active research is Alzheimer’s disease. Clinical trials suggest that LIFU can reduce amyloid plaque burden, a hallmark of the disease, simply by enabling targeted delivery or enhancing the brain’s own clearance mechanisms. In one study led by Dr. Rezai, patients receiving both focused ultrasound and anti-amyloid antibody therapy experienced greater reductions in plaque levels with minimal side effects.

LIFU is also being explored for neuromodulation—altering brain activity to treat psychiatric and behavioral disorders. By targeting deep brain structures involved in reward and craving, ultrasound has the potential to help patients with substance use disorders or behavioral addictions. Preliminary data from a small clinical study show that even a single treatment session aimed at the brain’s nucleus accumbens reduced cravings, with some patients reporting sustained effects.

Dr. Rezai emphasized that these breakthroughs are not theoretical. His team at the Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute is performing these procedures weekly, and demand is increasing. “We’re in desperate need for therapeutic strategies because people are living longer,” he said.

As this field matures, the implications extend far beyond traditional neurology. Focused ultrasound for therapeutic use is drawing interest from neurosurgeons, psychiatrists, biomedical engineers, and data scientists. The integration of real-time imaging, precision targeting, and noninvasive energy delivery makes it a uniquely versatile platform. It may not be long before therapeutic ultrasound becomes a standard tool in multidisciplinary care, ushering in a new era where sound not only reveals what’s happening inside the body but also helps restore function and quality of life.

The future is very bright for therapeutics and using focused ultrasound
— Dr. Ali Rezai

Cynthia Owens, BA, is the Publications Coordinator for the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM).

6 Ultrasound Trends to Watch in 2025

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The field of ultrasound technology is rapidly evolving, with advances that promise to reshape diagnostic imaging and patient care. As we begin 2025, several exciting trends are emerging, driven by breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, portability, and precision imaging. Here, we explore six ultrasound trends that are set to make waves in the medical field in 2025.

1. AI-Powered Ultrasound Diagnostics

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming ultrasound imaging by automating complex tasks and enhancing diagnostic accuracy. In 2025, we expect AI to play a central role in streamlining workflows.

AI algorithms are increasingly capable of analyzing ultrasound images to detect and measure abnormalities, such as tumors, cysts, or cardiovascular issues, with speed and precision. These systems can assist practitioners in diagnosing conditions at an earlier state, reducing the risk of misdiagnosis. Moreover, real-time AI guidance is being integrated into portable devices, making it easier for clinicians to perform and interpret scans in remote or underserved areas.

For example, machine learning models are being trained to help ultrasound practitioners evaluate fetal development, monitor chronic diseases, and even predict patient outcomes. As these tools become more accessible, AI-driven ultrasound diagnostics will help address global disparities in healthcare delivery.

2. Therapeutic Ultrasound

Beyond diagnostics, ultrasound is increasingly being used for therapeutic purposes. Therapeutic ultrasound employs high-intensity sound waves to treat a variety of medical conditions by delivering targeted energy to tissues.

Applications of therapeutic ultrasound include treating kidney stones, fibroid, and prostate disease, as well as enhancing drug delivery and alleviating chronic pain. Focused ultrasound therapy is also making significant strides in oncology. It’s used to ablate tumors non-invasively using either thermal or mechanical effects and the latter has been found to also promote abscopal immune responses. Additionally, this technology is showing promise in neurology, with research exploring its potential to treat conditions like Parkinson’s disease, addiction, and depression by stimulating specific areas of the brain.

As the technology continues to advance, therapeutic ultrasound offers a noninvasive alternative to traditional surgical procedures, reducing recovery times and minimizing risks. In 2025, look out for this application as it gains more widespread adoption in both clinical and research settings.

3. Miniaturization and Portability

Portability is becoming a common feature of next-generation ultrasound devices. Compact and lightweight handheld units are set to become even more powerful in 2025, enabling point-of-care imaging in ways that were unimaginable just a decade ago.

These miniaturized devices are equipped with wireless capabilities, allowing clinicians to transmit data seamlessly to cloud-based platforms or electronic health records (EHRs). In emergency situations, paramedics and first responders can use portable ultrasound to assess internal injuries on-site, significantly improving patient outcomes.

Additionally, this trend aligns with the growing focus on telemedicine. Patients in remote or rural areas can now benefit from real-time imaging performed by trained technologists and reviewed by specialists miles away.

4. High-Resolution 3D and 4D Imaging

The demand for high-resolution imaging is pushing the boundaries of 3D and 4D ultrasound technology. By 2025, these systems will deliver clearer, more detailed images, providing clinicians with enhanced diagnostic capabilities.

4D ultrasound, which adds the dimension of time to 3D imaging, is especially beneficial in fields like obstetrics, where it offers real-time visualization of fetal movements. Beyond obstetrics, high-resolution imaging is proving invaluable in cardiology and oncology, enabling practitioners to visualize complex structures such as heart valves or tumor margins with greater clarity. This technology also bridges the gap and allows for greater reliability of mutual registration between ultrasound and MRI, CT, and PET.  

Image resolution improvements are accompanied by generally more affordable ultrasound technology overall, making sonography a first radiologic assessment tool accessible to smaller clinics and facilities worldwide.

5. Integration With Wearable Technologies

Wearable devices are stepping into the ultrasound space, promising to revolutionize how and where imaging is conducted. These devices, which can be worn as patches or integrated into clothing, are designed to provide continuous monitoring of specific conditions.

In 2025, you may see wearable ultrasound being used for applications like tracking cardiovascular health or monitoring chronic conditions such as kidney disease. For instance, a wearable device could continuously measure blood flow or detect abnormalities in real time, alerting healthcare providers to intervene in a timely manner.

This trend aligns with the broader movement towards personalized medicine, where patients take a proactive role in their healthcare with the help of smart technologies.

6. Expanded Use of Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound (CEUS)

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is gaining traction for its ability to improve visualization of blood flow and tissue vascularity. Unlike traditional ultrasound, CEUS uses microbubble contrast agents that provide detailed imaging without exposing patients to ionizing radiation or iodinated contrast material.

In 2025, CEUS is expected to find broader applications, particularly in oncology and cardiology. It is being used to assess heart function more accurately, differentiate between benign and malignant lesions, monitor the efficacy of cancer treatments, and has therapeutic applications. The latter is a unique demonstration of ultrasound having both diagnostic and therapeutic indications. 

The noninvasive nature of CEUS, combined with its diagnostic precision, is making it a preferred option for patients and providers alike. As regulatory approvals expand and more clinicians are trained to use this technology, CEUS will likely become a standard in advanced diagnostic imaging.

Conclusion

Ultrasound technology is undergoing a renaissance, driven by advances in electronics, miniaturization, portability, and imaging algorithms, including AI. As we move into 2025, these trends are set to enhance diagnostic capabilities, improve patient outcomes, and make imaging more accessible than ever before.

For healthcare providers and institutions, staying ahead of these trends will be critical in delivering cutting-edge care. Whether through adopting AI-powered solutions or CEUS, integrating wearable devices, or exploring new techniques like therapeutic ultrasound, the future of ultrasound is brighter—and more innovative—than ever.

Therese Cooper, BS, RDMS, is a sonographer and the Chief Learning Officer at the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Harnessing Sound to Heal: The Transformative Power of High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound

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In the evolving landscape of medical technology, where the boundaries between science fiction and clinical practice blur, one innovative treatment stands out for its profound potential to change lives: High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU). As a leader in both the academic and practical application of this technology, I’ve witnessed firsthand its transformative power and the hope it offers to patients worldwide.

HIFU represents a groundbreaking approach to treatment, utilizing the precise application of sound waves to target and treat a variety of medical conditions, without the need for invasive surgery. This technology harnesses the energy of ultrasound waves, concentrating them on a specific point within the body. At this focal point, the ultrasound energy induces a therapeutic effect, such as destroying tissue in tumors or stimulating cellular responses that promote healing, without harming surrounding tissues.

The implications of HIFU are vast and varied. In oncology, it offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgeries, significantly reducing recovery times and associated risks. For patients with uterine fibroids, prostate cancer, or kidney stones, HIFU provides a treatment option that is not only effective but also preserves quality of life by minimizing side effects and hospital stays.

Beyond its current applications, ongoing research, including projects financed and led by our team at the Focused Ultrasound Foundation, is exploring the potential of HIFU to deliver targeted gene therapies and to treat neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, ALS, Alzheimer’s and epilepsy. The ability of HIFU to cross the blood-brain barrier—a longstanding obstacle in neurology—opens new avenues for treating diseases previously deemed intractable.

The journey of HIFU from a promising concept to a validated medical treatment underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation. It is a testament to the power of combining physics, engineering, biology, and medicine to overcome challenges and push the boundaries of what is possible in patient care.

However, the path forward requires more than just scientific breakthroughs. It necessitates a concerted effort among researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and patients to ensure that these advances are accessible to those who need them most.

As we stand on the brink of a new era in medical treatment, the promise of HIFU exemplifies the potential of technology to not just treat disease, but to transform lives. It compels us to reimagine the future of medicine as one where the scalpel is replaced by sound waves, where treatment is as precise as it is noninvasive, and where the healing power of innovation knows no bounds.

Dr. Frederic Padilla is the Director of Applied Physics Research at the Focused Ultrasound Foundation and a Visiting Professor at UVA School of Medicine.

Exploring the Future of Ultrasound: 5 Trends to Watch

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Ultrasound technology has come a long way since its inception and continues to evolve at a rapid pace. As we look ahead to the near future, it’s clear that ultrasound will play an even more vital role in healthcare. In this blog post, we’ll explore 5 trends (in no particular order) that are set to shape the field of ultrasound in the coming years.

1. Portable and Handheld Ultrasound Devices

The trend of portable and handheld ultrasound devices is on the rise. In the past, ultrasound machines were hundreds of pounds, carted around on wheels, and costly to manufacture. These new, compact, and lightweight devices offer healthcare professionals the convenience of conducting ultrasound examinations at the patient’s bedside, in remote areas, or during emergency situations, and wearable devices will become part of the ultrasound tool kit. Their affordability and ease of use make them accessible to a broader range of healthcare providers, expanding the potential applications of ultrasound. I predict that, under a doctor’s care and orders, the ways in which ultrasound is used will expand!

2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Integration

AI is revolutionizing the field of medical imaging, and ultrasound is no exception; however, sonographers and doctors are not going anywhere. AI algorithms can assist in image analysis, automate measurements, enhance quantitative imaging, and aid in the detection of abnormalities. In the near future, we can anticipate more sophisticated AI integration into ultrasound systems, which will not only enhance diagnostic accuracy but also improve workflow efficiency. AI will play a significant role in making ultrasound more accessible and reliable in terms of scanning, reading images, and delivering accurate results.

3. 3D and 4D Imaging

Three-dimensional (3D) and real-time 3D (4D) ultrasound imaging will continue to advance, providing clinicians with more detailed and interactive views of anatomical structures. This trend will be particularly valuable in obstetrics for capturing fetal development and in various other medical specialties where enhanced visualization and quantification are crucial. Expect to see more applications for complex anatomical assessments and dynamic studies.

4. Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS)

Point-of-care ultrasound, or POCUS, is transforming the way medical professionals diagnose and manage patients. POCUS is expected to see increased adoption in various clinical settings, including emergency medicine, anesthesiology, primary care, and critical care. As training programs expand, more healthcare providers will be equipped to use POCUS for rapid and accurate assessments, which can lead to improved patient care and outcomes on the spot. With increased adoption, interest in ultrasound practice accreditation in this area is rising.

5. Therapeutic Ultrasound Applications

Beyond its diagnostic role, ultrasound is making great advances in therapeutic applications. Techniques like High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) are being employed for noninvasive surgeries, cancer treatments, and targeted drug delivery. In the coming years, we can expect to see further developments in therapeutic ultrasound, offering less invasive treatment options for a wide range of medical conditions and increasing the potential for ultrasound theranostics.

The future of ultrasound is incredibly promising with these 5 trends at the forefront of its evolution. From portable devices and AI integration to advanced imaging techniques and expanding applications in point-of-care and therapeutics, ultrasound is set to become even more integral to modern healthcare. Stay tuned as these trends continue to shape the landscape of medical imaging and patient care. We’re excited to witness the many possibilities that lie ahead for this versatile technology.

Therese Cooper, BS, RDMS, is a sonographer and the Director of Accreditation at the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

Ultrasound: The Therapy of the Future Coming to a Clinic Near You!

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Ultrasound is most commonly known for diagnostic imaging and image-guided interventions, but there is also the potential to harness its power for therapeutic benefits. The use of ultrasound as a therapy is growing, with more than 1,900 active clinical investigations underway. There are also avenues to get insurance reimbursement for the treatment of certain ailments with ultrasound therapy, including bone metastases, essential tremor, and prostate.

In order to help guide physicians that may become involved in the use of ultrasound therapies, the Bioeffects Committee of the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) has issued new and updated statements on the AIUM website. These statements help to identify what to consider when using ultrasound therapies, including what happens to the targeted tissue and safety. Some highlights from these statements include:

  • Although safe when used properly for imaging, ultrasound can cause biological effects associated with therapeutic benefits when administered at sufficient exposure levels. Ultrasound therapeutic biological effects occur through two known mechanisms: thermal and mechanical. Thermal effects occur as the result of absorption of ultrasound waves within tissue, resulting in heating. Mechanical effects, such as fluid streaming and radiation force, are initiated by the transfer of energy/momentum from the incident pulse to tissue or nearby biofluids. Indirect mechanical effects can also occur through interaction of the ultrasound pulse with microbubbles such as ultrasound contrast agents. Importantly, thermal and mechanical mechanisms can trigger biological responses that result in desired therapeutic endpoints.
  • The type of bioeffects generated by ultrasound depend on many factors, including the ultrasound source, exposure conditions, presence of cavitation nuclei, and tissue type. Different bioeffects will require different amounts of ultrasound, and thermal and mechanical mechanisms can occur simultaneously for some exposure conditions.
  • There is the possibility of adverse effects in therapeutic ultrasound for targeted and untargeted tissue. Practitioners using these modalities must be well trained on the safe and effective use of therapeutic devices, knowledgeable about potential adverse events, aware of contraindications, and diligent in performing safe procedures. Image guidance should be used to ensure accurate targeting and dosing to maximize the outcomes for patients.

The statements issued by the AIUM’s Bioeffects Committee are intended as baseline considerations when a new therapy device is being put into practice. As ultrasound therapies continue to be adopted into clinical use, the Bioeffects Committee will continue to monitor outcomes in order to inform and educate the community.

Interested in learning more about the bioeffects of ultrasound? Check out the following Official Statements from the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM):

The Power of Ultrasound in Physiotherapy

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In incredible ways, ultrasound has revolutionized the path to recovery for patients with soft tissue damage and enhanced the patients’ overall well-being. It is a cutting-edge therapeutic technique that harnesses the power of sound waves to stimulate deep tissues, accelerate healing, and alleviate pain. Through its mechanical vibrations, ultrasound effectively increases blood flow, reduces inflammation, and enhances the flexibility of muscles and tendons. This noninvasive modality has significantly impacted the field of physiotherapy.

The Benefits of Ultrasound in Physiotherapy

  1. Accelerated Healing: The primary benefit of ultrasound therapy is its ability to expedite the healing process. By encouraging collagen production, ultrasound facilitates the repair of tissues, enabling faster recovery from various injuries and conditions. Witnessing the speed at which a body can regenerate and mend itself is truly remarkable.
  2. Pain Relief: Dealing with pain can be physically and mentally debilitating. Thankfully, ultrasound therapy can provide immense relief. By stimulating sensory nerves, this modality effectively alleviates pain, allowing a runner to focus on their recovery and regain their quality of life.
  3. Improved Circulation: Optimal blood circulation is vital for the healing process. Ultrasound therapy can be instrumental in enhancing circulation, ensuring that oxygen and essential nutrients reach the damaged tissues more efficiently. As a result, inflammation reduces, and overall healing is optimized.
  4. Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility: A lack of mobility and flexibility can hinder daily activities and impact overall well-being. Ultrasound therapy can cause significant improvements in these areas. The targeted sound waves promote soft tissue mobilization, increasing flexibility and range of motion. This newfound freedom of movement has been a game-changer for many patients.
  5. Noninvasive and Safe: One of the most appealing aspects of ultrasound therapy is its noninvasive nature. Patients can receive effective treatment without the need for surgical interventions or invasive procedures. This not only minimizes downtime but also provides peace of mind for the patient, who knows that they are undergoing a safe and risk-free therapy.

Incorporating Ultrasound Into Physiotherapy Sessions

During physiotherapy sessions, the utilization of ultrasound therapy can be a straightforward and comfortable experience. The physiotherapist applies a gel to the targeted area and gently moves a handheld transducer over the skin. The transducer emits therapeutic sound waves, which penetrate deep into the tissues, providing the desired benefits. The duration and frequency of ultrasound treatment are tailored to the patient’s specific needs, ensuring optimal results.

It is crucial to emphasize that ultrasound therapy should always be administered by trained professionals who can customize the treatment according to individual requirements, and can take into account any contraindications. Physiotherapists conduct thorough assessments and develop personalized treatment plans that may include a combination of ultrasound therapy, stretching exercises, strengthening routines, and other complementary techniques.

Ultrasound is a transformative, revolutionary therapy in the realm of physiotherapy. Through its ability to accelerate healing, alleviate pain, improve circulation, and enhance mobility, ultrasound has become an indispensable tool in the journey toward improved well-being. If you are considering physiotherapy or seeking effective treatment options, I highly encourage you to explore the incredible benefits of ultrasound therapy. Consult with a qualified physiotherapist who can review your case and determine whether it is in your best interest to experience the remarkable healing potential of ultrasound firsthand.

Interested in learning more about ultrasound in physiotherapy? Check out the following articles from the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine’s (AIUM’s) Journal of Ultrasound in Medicine (JUM). Members of AIUM can access them for free after logging in to the AIUM. Join the AIUM today!

And, check out this post from the Scan:

Cynthia Owens, BA, is the Publications Coordinator for the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM).

Dawning of Another Golden Age for Ultrasound

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Diagnostic ultrasound is an essential clinician’s tool. And, although it often does not get the attention (such as Nobel Prizes) of its sibling imaging modalities, it is the most utilized imaging modality in the world, depending on the metric.

The reasons why ultrasound is an essential tool are likely obvious to most readers of this blog. Ultrasound is relatively inexpensive, portable, and provides real-time imaging. It can be brought to patients who might otherwise be unable to receive imaging, whether that is because of the condition of the patient or the condition of the world around them. The variety and depth of our communities of practice attest to the robustness of this imaging modality (as does this blog, in its relatively short history). Furthermore, ultrasound imaging is not a static field; new technologies and applications, such as the use of artificial intelligence for COVID-19 diagnosis, are being incorporated on a continual basis.

Kevin Haworth, PhD, Cardiovascular

The American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) has played a central role in the history and promotion of ultrasound imaging due to its membership. I would argue one of its greatest strengths is that the AIUM provides a home for anyone involved in ultrasound: sonographers, physicians, scientists, academicians, students, private practice providers, and industrial partners. There are a number of other professional societies associated with ultrasound imaging, but none that cover the same breadth of topics and people.

The AIUM has done this, in part, by stepping up to the openings before it. The AIUM has embraced a variety of opportunities to make a difference in the lives of patients, including decades ago with the advent of the ‘modern’ array and continuing to more recent capabilities including bedside POCUS, telehealth, and artificial intelligence.

Is the AIUM ready to continue its role as the preeminent home for all areas of ultrasound? Is it ready to fully embrace the dawning of another golden age for ultrasound – therapeutic ultrasound?

The field of therapeutic ultrasound has a rich history stretching back decades. What separates the current era from the past is the combination of technological advancements made and the pairing of these technologies with dedicated clinicians. Furthermore, the field has been accelerating as it learns from past successes to create future ones. One of the most notable initial advances was the use of ultrasound thermal ablation of uterine fibroids, which has been available to women in the United States since 2004. A number of companies have subsequently obtained FDA clearance, the European CE mark, or other equivalent regulatory approval for their ultrasound thermal ablation devices, enabling the treatment of a wide range of conditions.

In the past decade, reimbursement has also become available for ultrasound treatment of bone metastases and essential tremor. Most importantly though, the pipeline is rich with dozens of potential applications and hundreds of clinical trials. Importantly, the mechanism of action by which ultrasound can have a therapeutic effect has grown beyond thermal ablation, with clinical trials in blood-brain barrier disruption, ultrasound-mediated drug delivery, and mechanical tissue ablation (just to name a few).

The AIUM already has a number of our basic-scientist and clinician-scientist members making great contributions, particularly within the Basic Science & Instrumentation and Therapeutic Ultrasound Communities of Practice. However, to remain the preeminent home for all areas of ultrasound, we will need engagement from the entire broad and rich swath of expertise that our full membership community has to offer. There are important questions to answer, and I do not pretend to know the answers. I am confident, though, in the ability of our community to answer them. A few of the important questions for us to consider are:

  1. Just as there has been great opportunity in bringing together ultrasound imaging expertise across medical fields, do we see similar opportunity in being a home to bring together ultrasound therapy expertise across different medical fields?
  2. How do we make our society a welcoming place for therapeutic ultrasound clinicians who might not have the deep background in diagnostic ultrasound that is common of current AIUM members?
  3. How do we integrate our existing imaging expertise in helping to advance therapy, through treatment planning, guidance, and monitoring?
  4. How do we break down some of the silos between our existing communities, particularly the more discovery-oriented communities and the more practice-oriented communities?
  5. As we have played an important role in establishing standards, guidelines, and practice parameters in ultrasound imaging, should we do the same for therapeutic ultrasound?

The fundamental question, however, is: do we want to remain to be the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine, or do we want to be the American Institute of Ultrasound Imaging in Medicine?

Kevin Haworth (Twitter: @kevinhaworth) is an Associate Professor of Internal Medicine at the University of Cincinnati in Ohio.

Therapy Dogs

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What could be cuter and more beneficial to patients than a team of six Golden Retriever therapy dogs showing kids how to undergo procedures?

Jessie having echocardiogram-1

Therapy dog, Jessie, undergoes an echocardiogram while being comforted by ‘Mom’, who is holding her paw.

At Southampton Children’s Hospital in the UK, the therapy dogs help the pediatric patients overcome their anxiety and fear by providing support ranging from general meet-and-greet style Animal Assisted Activity visits to Animal Assisted Therapy. The therapy dogs assist in physiotherapy, speech and occupational therapy, phlebotomy services and injections, radiology investigations, and by supporting children in the anaesthetic room.

leo on mri scanner

Leo demonstrating laying down in an MRI scanner.

One of the reasons therapy dogs are so helpful is that they are nonjudgmental and take the healthcare environment in stride. They don’t cajole or persuade, and I am sure that is why the children sometimes trust them more than the people who are with them. Every parent and medical staff member is trying to get the procedure done, which is why using the dogs as a bridge between the healthcare team and the child is so very useful. As a volunteer, it has been a privilege to be able to develop this service for the hospital.

I am delighted to say that we have images and videos that enable us to assist the medical staff even when we are not there! The library of pictures and videos that the staff can show the children when they are anxious includes such things as:

  • A short film, ‘Leo goes to X-ray,’ showing therapy dog, Leo, going to the X-ray department and explaining how easy it is to have a radiology investigation, whether it is a plain film X-ray or CT/MRI scan.  (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vb8kIU4y9H4)
  • A video of a therapy dog heading down to theatre after admission procedure and showing what the route to theatre looks like as well as showing the anaesthetic room.
  • As well as many adorable and helpful photos.

archie investigations collage

Archie demonstrating, from top left, a thermometer to the arm, stethoscope to the chest, SATS testing, and pulse oximitry on a paw.

You can see more in this report on yahoo! news.

 

 

Have you ever worked with therapy dogs? If so, what was your experience like? Comment below, or, AIUM members, continue the conversation on Connect, the AIUM’s online community.

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Lyndsey Uglow is the Lead Animal Assisted Intervention Handler at Southampton Children’s Hospital Therapy Dogs.

Interdisciplinary Education and Training in MSK Ultrasound

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In my primary specialty of occupational medicine there is a need for practical education in musculoskeletal ultrasound for both diagnostic evaluation and therapeutic interventional guidance. Incorporation of this into education has begun recently and is continuing in the specialty. A wide variety of specialties are represented in occupational medicine, including many specialists who move into the field after a mid-career transition.

Interestingly, over the last few years, clinicians have approached me and asked me to help them learn musculoskeletal ultrasound from many different disciplines outside of occupational medicine. These have included emergency medicine, orthopedics, rheumatology, sports medicine, family medicine, radiology, palliative care, and physical medicine and rehabilitation. When inquiring into why these clinicians are seeking training in this modality it seems that the consistent answer is thdr-sayeedat medical students are graduating and insisting on using ultrasound in their residency training. It would seem that many of our medical students are learning ultrasound at a rate that will outpace attending physician knowledge, exposure, and experience. Indeed, when teaching ultrasound to many of the medical students at West Virginia University as part of their medical education, I was astounded to see how proficient they were at using the machine, the transducer, and correctly identifying both normal and pathologic anatomy. It’s my understanding that many universities have included medical ultrasound into the academic curricula as a bridge to their respective gross anatomy courses and in their general clinical medical education.

Ultrasound is a modality utilized by many medical specialties for various indications. Several specialties outside of radiology, including the ones above, utilize ultrasound. Increasingly, residency programs are integrating ultrasound into their ACGME-accredited curriculum and, importantly, medical students are also learning the benefits of using the modality. It seems clear that despite the number of pitfalls, hurdles, and difficulties using ultrasound, the modality has proven to be an asset in clinical settings and has become a permanent fixture in hospital and clinical settings. The benefits of utilizing ultrasound have been well documented across many academic medical journals. I believe that medicine, as a whole, has done well to embrace the modality, however, there seems to be another vital step to take in the education arena to more fully integrate the modality into our patient’s care.

Currently, most education models for teaching ultrasound, whether it is for residents or medical students, involves grouping like kind together. Emergency residents learn it in the emergency medicine didactics. Physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) residents learn it from demonstrations in their own didactics, and so on. Perhaps approaching the curriculum from a more inclusive perspective, however, would be more beneficial for residents and fellows. I, personally, had experience teaching an integrated musculoskeletal course at West Virginia University. The idea, admittedly, was born out of necessity. Physicians experienced in ultrasound from sports medicine, emergency medicine and occupational medicine created and executed a curriculum to teach musculoskeletal ultrasound and invited residents from other specialties. The interest we were able to garner quite frankly surprised me. Although the curriculum was targeted to occupational medicine residents the interest in using musculoskeletal ultrasound was widespread. Residents from specialties like emergency medicine, radiology, family medicine, internal medicine, and orthopedics attended our sessions.

While the course was a success, introducing an integrated curriculum across medical specialties posed a new set of challenges. My specialty was able to use dedicated didactic time for the education but many other specialties have disparate educational time. Many residents could not make all of the sessions and many more could not make any sessions because of fixed residency schedules. This makes coordination very difficult. As I have pondered this over the last few months I believe that educational leaders should begin to form structured educational collaborative time for activities like education in musculoskeletal ultrasound. Each discipline will be able to contribute to teaching to ensure high quality evidence-based curriculum for residents learning ultrasound. Each discipline has their individual strengths and collaboration ensures coordination and even learning amongst instructors. Integrating medicine has been a goal of thought leaders in medicine at the very highest levels and can be replicated for the instruction and training of our resident physicians.

Another option is to allow residents to attend the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine’s annual conference where interdisciplinary education in ultrasound occurs. This conference even has a day for collegial competition among medical students and schools. In fact, the courses are created to encourage engagement in the education and training of clinicians at all levels of training. The overall goal is to advance the education and training in this modality and hope that education leaders begin to encourage collaboration in a much larger scale thus achieving integrated medical care that provides a building block to lead to high quality evidence-based medical care for our patients, families, and communities.

What other areas of ultrasound education have room to grow? How would you recommend making changes? Do you have any stories from your own education to share? Comment below or let us know on Twitter: @AIUM_Ultrasound.

Yusef Sayeed, MD, MPH, MEng, CPH, is a Fellow at Deuk Spine Institute, Melbourne, FL.