Ultrasound of soft parts is a diagnostic procedure used to investigate the soft tissues of the body, which include muscles, tendons, joints, and other non-bony structures. This non-invasive test employs high-frequency sound waves to create images of the internal structures, aiding physicians in diagnosing various conditions.
The technology uses sound waves to generate real-time images of the body's internal structures. Since ultrasound does not involve radiation, it is considered a safe and reliable method for visualizing soft tissues, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints, as well as other structures like blood vessels.
In an ultrasound of soft parts, a small transducer (probe) and ultrasound gel are placed directly on the skin over the area to be examined. The transducer generates sound waves, which bounce back after hitting the body structures, creating echoes. These echoes are converted into images by the ultrasound machine, providing a live "movie" of the inside of your body.
This imaging procedure is instrumental in evaluating various medical conditions, from tendon tears, muscle injuries, soft tissue masses, and inflammatory conditions to infections and fluid collections. It can guide physicians in performing procedures such as fluid aspiration and biopsies.