All ultrasound therapies utilize electrical current through a probe to exert force through thermal energy and cavitation to produce the desired effect. The probe is typically a handheld device with piezoelectric crystals that produce the ultrasound waves. Imaging modalities like ultrasound and MRI can increase the safety, accuracy, and effectiveness of therapeutic ultrasound when used in tandem. Magnetic resonance imaging in MRgUS monitors the temperature of surrounding tissues while simultaneously focusing the ultrasound on the fibroid or tumor of interest. This action can prevent the ablation of viable, non-cancerous tissue. Ultrasound imaging has also been paired with HIFU because it is cheaper, obtains live images, and has wide compatibility with implantable devices. However, MRI is a preferable imaging modality for many HIFU procedures due to its more extensive field of view and image resolution.
USG
Some of the earliest uses of therapeutic ultrasound relied on the transference of thermal energy through supersonic waves. The energy of these waves causes vibration and heating of the tissues under the probe. The thermal energy absorbed, in turn, can induce dilation of blood vessels, which can increase cellular metabolism through oxygen and nutrient delivery. At low powers, many physical therapists can treat stretch pain and shoulder pathologies with the thermal energy produced by the ultrasound.
