The Biophysical Mode of Action of Biologic and Therapeutic Ultrasonic Reactions

Abstract

A review is presented of numerous biophysical studies concerning the action of ultrasound on living matter, with particular reference to therapeutic applications. On the basis of the experiments described. involving various physical, physiochemical, and chemical effects, it is concluded that selective heating caused by the radiation plays the major role quantitatively under therapeutic conditions. However, ultrasound also produces a mechanical effect. The diffusion layer at an interface is decreased by stirring, and thus exchange of metabolites is augmented.