Role of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of head and neck swellings

Diagnostic ultrasonography is a valuable, non-invasive quick, widely available, relatively inexpensive, painless & accurate diagnostic tool that is capable of portraying fine structure in considerable detail. Ionizing radiation is not involved in ultrasonography & can be repeated as often as necessary without the risk to patient. Ultrasonographic examination was superior to clinical examination as it delineate not only the presence & location but also the internal nature of disease. The use of real –time ultrasonography with high-frequency transducers can significantly improve the evaluation of patients with soft tissue masses in head & neck region and is capable of differentiating not only cystic from solid lesions but also can be helpful in the diagnosis of malignant verses benign or inflammatory masses.Ultrasonography is a useful imaging tool in differentiation of cellulitis from abscesses.. It is also useful in diagnosis of those conditions involving the parotid & submandibular salivary gland. Ultrasound (US) has not been used only for diagnostic purposes but it also used over 60 years in the therapeutic management of pain, musculoskeletal injuries.