What is the main disadvantage of performing ultrasound in obese patients?

The main disadvantage of performing ultrasound in obese patients is the increased difficulty in obtaining clear images due to the presence of excess tissue. In ultrasound imaging, sound waves are used to create images of structures inside the body. When there is a significant amount of adipose (fat) tissue, it can attenuate or absorb some of the ultrasound waves, resulting in diminished image quality. The excess tissue can also scatter the sound waves, making it challenging for the ultrasound machine to produce accurate and detailed images. This can affect the ability of the sonographer to visualize organs or structures effectively, potentially leading to misinterpretation or missed diagnoses.

The other considerations, while relevant to patient care, do not directly address the issue of image quality. For instance, the risk of infection is not inherently increased due to obesity; rather, infection risk can be associated with other factors like underlying health conditions. Limited patient mobility can present challenges in positioning for the ultrasound but does not directly affect the quality of the images obtained. The option that states excess tissue enhances image quality is contrary to the principles of ultrasound physics and is not accurate.