In which area is an ultrasound typically less effective?

Ultrasound waves' effectiveness can be significantly hindered in individuals with high levels of body fat or increased gastrointestinal gas. In obese patients, the additional adipose tissue can serve as a barrier, scattering the sound waves and diminishing the quality of the images produced. Similarly, high gastrointestinal gas creates an obstacle for ultrasound penetration as the gas does not transmit ultrasound waves effectively, leading to reduced clarity and detail in the imaging process.

In contrast, ultrasound is generally effective in pregnant women because the amniotic fluid offers a good medium for sound wave transmission. Healthy, lean patients are also typically optimal candidates for ultrasound examinations, as their reduced body fat allows waves to traverse through the body more efficiently. Children under five tend to be more manageable in terms of conducting ultrasound, and their smaller size accommodates better image quality compared to adults with obesity or excess gastrointestinal gas.