What are the two main bioeffects of ultrasound?

The two main bioeffects of ultrasound are thermal effects and cavitation.

Thermal effects refer to the increase in temperature that can occur in tissues when ultrasound waves are absorbed. The energy from the ultrasound is converted into heat, which can raise the temperature of tissues in the area being examined. This is important to monitor because excessive heating can potentially cause tissue damage.

Cavitation refers to the formation of gas-filled bubbles within the tissues due to the pressure changes exerted by the ultrasound waves. These bubbles can oscillate and may lead to both beneficial and adverse effects. In medical ultrasonography, controlled cavitation can enhance drug delivery and improve therapeutic outcomes, while uncontrolled cavitation may create shock waves that could damage cells.

Understanding these effects is crucial for sonographers to ensure safety during ultrasound procedures and to optimize imaging and therapeutic applications. The other options include concepts that are not primarily identified as the main bioeffects of ultrasound in the context of medical imaging and therapy.