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Which internal organs can be examined with ultrasound imaging?

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Ultrasound imaging is a nonionizing diagnostic tool that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize various structures within the human body. By measuring the reflections of these waves as they encounter changes in tissue density, medical professionals can examine several internal organs and structures, including:12

  • Heart1
  • Liver1
  • Kidneys1
  • Gallbladder1
  • Breasts1
  • Eyes1
  • Major blood vessels1

Additionally, ultrasound is widely utilized in obstetrics to examine fetuses in utero to assess their size, position, and development. Beyond static imaging, the technology can be used to monitor the motion of organs—such as in the study of heart dysfunction—and to evaluate blood flow through arteries. Because it does not rely on ionizing radiation, it is considered a safe and effective method for diagnostic procedures.12