Continuous ultrasound is associated with which type of effects?

Continuous ultrasound is associated with which type of effects?

• A. Thermal
• B. Nonthermal
• C. Both
• D. None

Answer: (A)

Continuous ultrasound delivers energy without interruption, so the energy accumulates in the tissue and is converted to heat. That sustained energy increase raises tissue temperature, producing thermal effects such as increased blood flow, faster metabolic rate, and improved tissue extensibility. Nonthermal effects—like microstreaming, cavitation, and acoustic streaming—are more associated with pulsed ultrasound, where energy is delivered in intervals and allows cooling between pulses. Because continuous delivery emphasizes heating, the correct association is thermal effects.

Continuous ultrasound delivers energy without interruption, so the energy accumulates in the tissue and is converted to heat. That sustained energy increase raises tissue temperature, producing thermal effects such as increased blood flow, faster metabolic rate, and improved tissue extensibility. Nonthermal effects—like microstreaming, cavitation, and acoustic streaming—are more associated with pulsed ultrasound, where energy is delivered in intervals and allows cooling between pulses. Because continuous delivery emphasizes heating, the correct association is thermal effects.