Ultrasonography

Ultrasonography (US) uses the reflection of sound waves to provide information about tissues and their interfaces with other tissues. This is a noninvasive and relatively inexpensive technique for imaging superficial tissues in “real time.” The operator applies a probe over the area of interest and receives information immediately on the computer monitor. In regard to the head and neck region, there has been a great deal of recent interest in the imaging of salivary glands (Figure 3-12).
Several researchers have studied the ultrasonographic features of a variety of tumors and other conditions in the parotid gland, in an attempt to make a diagnosis before biopsy as the surgical management of these tumors may vary. Others have
Ultrasonography

looked at the heterogeneity of sonic echo production within the parenchyma of parotid glands affected by a variety of inflammatory or autoimmune conditions. Efforts are being made to categorize lymph nodes in the neck as metastatic, reactive, or normal in patients with head and neck neoplasms. Evaluation of stenosis of carotid arteries is also usually done with US.
US has been used to assess some joints in the body for evidence of inflammation, tears in ligaments and tendons, and other abnormalities. Unfortunately, US does not appear to be useful for determining internal derangement of the TMJ at this time although work is continuing in this area.