@article{MAKHILLRJMS20137111878,
    title = {Benchmarking Acoustic Parameters During Diagnostic Ultrasound Scanning for Patient Safety},
    journal = {Research Journal of Medical Sciences},
    volume = {7},
    number = {1},
    pages = {1-4},
    year = {2013},
    issn = {1815-9346},
    doi = {rjmsci.2013.1.4},
    url = {https://makhillpublications.co/view-article.php?issn=1815-9346&doi=rjmsci.2013.1.4},
    author = {Sarah and},
    keywords = {Acoustic output indices,ultrasound,patient safety,thermal index,mechanical index,bioeffects},
    abstract = {Background advancement in acoustic technology has led to an 
  increase in ultrasound machine output which has the potential to increase thermal 
  and mechanical effects in tissue. The safety committee of the British Medical 
  Ultrasound Society (BMUS) has emphasised the importance of monitoring output 
  levels during clinical ultrasound. The objective of this study is to assess 
  Acoustic Output Indices (AOI) used at King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH), 
  Saudi Arabia and to benchmark the current practice with a survey conducted by 
  BMUS. A questionnaire was used to collect data during every ultrasound scan 
  performed between June 2nd and 23rd, 2011. The data collected consisted of type 
  and duration of scan, ultrasound machine parameters and output indices (mechanical 
  and thermal). About 408 scans were conducted using 10 different machines. Scan 
  types were: abdominal, obstetrics, pelvic, transvaginal and small parts. Scan 
  time ranged from 2-36 min. Maximum Thermal (TI) and Mechanical (MI) indices 
  recorded were 1.3 and 1.5, respectively. Scans performed complied with the safety 
  guidelines set by BMUS. However, the recommended scan time was exceeded during 
  2 (1.5%) obstetric scans. Further efforts in educating and training sonographers 
  regarding the risks of thermal and mechanical hazards are needed.}
    }