In ultrasound imaging, visuals of organs and tissues are formed using sound waves with a frequency higher than the range of human hearing. Since sound waves do not travel through the air well, a medium is needed, usually called ultrasound gel. This gel aims to fill the space between the transducer and the skin, thus eliminating air pockets. While medical-grade ultrasound gel is the primary type, others serve the same objectives.
Alternatives Other than Ultrasound Gel
1. KY Jelly
Another supplement in the market is KY Jelly which is a water-soluble lubricant that is used for both males and females during rigorous scrutiny like Gynecological or Prostate exams.
2. Bio Oil
This product is mostly used to enhance the appearance of scars, stretch marks as well as shape and even skin color. Bio-oil is also stocked in grocery stores and pharmacies.
3. Moisturizers & Creams
Body lotion and moisturizer serve as effective alternatives to ultrasound gel in most non-clinical environments, even though they are not as effective in conducting sound waves. They are affordable and can be found easily.
4. Hand Sanitizer
Research shared at the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) has shown that hand sanitizer can serve as a cheaper substitute in regions with poor healthcare systems.
5. Skin Gel or Aloe Vera
Everyday ultrasound devices such as fetal Dopplers can be used alongside gels like aloe vera without any hassle. These gels are easy to find and quite cheap.
Are These Alternatives Safe?
Patients and professionals often rely on cheap substitutes to avoid using medical-grade ultrasound gels, but the other product comes with its own set of dangers.
• Reduction of Imagery Precision
Ultrasound gels containing dyes, or any other additives that may alter diagnostic images, are never used in hospitals due to their low level of accuracy. In less critical situations, subpar products can have a devastating impact on prenatal scans.
• Risk of Skin Reactions
People with sensitive skin experience rashes onset by irritation in response to lotions and creams that are not medically attuned. Pregnant women in particular are susceptible to hormonal changes, which initiate products to turn toxic and lead to skin irritation.
• Potential Machine Damage
Transducers are a super expensive, yet sensitive component of ultrasound equipment. Some cheap products have materials embedded into them that risk damaging the transducer. Machines should only be cleaned using approved disinfectants to ensure maximum life expectancy.
Final Thoughts
The gel for ultrasound examinations is carried out with the highest level of accuracy, which helps in sound wave transmission. This, in return, guarantees the production of high-quality images. While options like KY Jelly, bio-oil, moisturizers, hand sanitizers, and even aloe vera gel exist, none of these serve the purpose very well. Ultrasound gel is important in preserving the probe’s porosity for proper diagnosis, patient safety, and resting the equipment for longer periods. This is why medical-grade ultrasound gel is used instead.
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