Investigation of the Potential Windows and Methods for Viewing the Tongue Using Diagnostic Medical Ultrasound

Abstract

Currently diagnostic modalities to evaluate lesions of the tongue are limited. Ultrasonography is a potential source of diagnostic information that can be utilized, if developed properly, to evaluate these lesions. This study investigates prospective windows sonography use to examine the tongue externally, lessening invasive measures currently used to diagnose and treat pathology. Based on results of this study, five of eight windows and methods tested were shown to have potential for evaluating the tongue externally. These were shown to be reproducible, acceptable windows for sonographers, providing a prospective means for sonographic evaluation of the tongue with hopes of developing a standardized protocol.

Is Ultrasound a Useful Adjunct in the Management of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

“…In the literature, this technique has been shown to optimize sonographic imaging of tumors in these locations. 11 Figures 16, 17 show sagittal oblique transbuccal USS images that resulted from the waterin-mouth technique. Figure 16 displays a hypoechoic lesion abutting the left hemimandible at the retromolar trigone with a hyperechoic line indicating the gingival cortical margin of the mandible.…”