Tom Cruise buys an ultrasound machine for home use

23 Weeks, the wonder of 3D
by Craig Cmehil via Flickr

The American College of Radiology (ACR)'s press release regarding Mr. Cruise:

...ultrasound should not be considered completely innocuous. Laboratory studies have shown that diagnostic levels of ultrasound can produce physical effects in tissue, such as mechanical vibrations and rise in temperature, particularly when used for a prolonged period of time.

The FDA's statement in June 2005 warned:

those who subject individuals to ultrasound exposure using a diagnostic ultrasound device (a prescription device) without a physician's order may be in violation of State or local laws or regulations regarding use of a prescription medical device.

This may not be a purely technical violation, as MSNBC's Fran Kritz noted:

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The FDA says that while prenatal sonograms are generally done at very low power levels, current machines, which range in price from $15,000 to $200,000, can produce sound wave intensities eight times higher than a decade ago and at that level, especially if used for prolonged periods, there could be a real risk to the developing fetus.

Mr. Cruise should note that there is a new Alberta, Canada law which will allow children to sue their mothers for injuries suffered in the womb.


(via Kevin, MD blog)

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