Ultrasound of the eye – Part 1: Normal anatomy, technical parameters and scanning technique

Abstract

A request for an ultrasound of the eye can be a relatively infrequent occurrence for a sonographer, but ultrasound can play a pivotal role in the detection of vision threatening conditions. In those instances where sonographers are required to perform the occasional ocular ultrasound, a sound knowledge of normal anatomy, scanning techniques, technical parameters and pitfalls is pertinent to ensure pathology is not overlooked. Ultrasound of the eye is commonly performed following trauma or visual disturbance. As such it is a useful diagnostic tool when fundoscopic examination of the eye is limited. The fact that it lacks the use of ionizing radiation, is non‐invasive and readily accessible are just some of its many advantages. However, the greatest advantage is its ability to provide a dynamic assessment of the eye. Ocular structures have a higher sensitivity to ultrasound exposure, which necessitates the correct use of technical parameters so as to not induce any vision affecting biological effects. The purpose of this article is to introduce sonographers to normal ocular anatomy, optimal scanning techniques for enhanced pathology detection, and most importantly the safe use of physical parameters to minimize damage to sensitive ocular structures.