Sound waves are then produced by a generator and transmitted through via the thin. Vacuum-like cannula. When the instrument makes contact with the fat cells, they liquefy and are vacuumed out ("Ultrasonic," 2008). Indications and Clinical Application for UAL:

Scheinfeld and Zimbler (2006) noted that patients with lipodystrophy, localized increased adipose tissue, benefit from liposuction. These patients may be at or below their ideal weight, yet there is fatty tissue present in excess in certain areas. Generalized obesity is not an indication for liposuction. Candidates should be in good health, have realistic expectations and not be obese. UAL is specifically indicated in areas where enhanced contouring is needed, very large areas, or very fibrous areas. Other indications for UAL, and liposuction in general, include treatment of: solitary and multiple lipomas, lipodystrophy, gynecomastia or psydogynecomastia, axillary hyperhidrosis, and axillary bromidrosis. UAL may also be used in reconstructive procedures, including fat debulking during scar revision ("Guidelines," 2006).

Role of Sonographer in UAL:

The role of sonographer is primarily diagnostic. In regards to the UAL procedure, a sonographer may be called on prior to the procedure to determine the density of the fatty areas being considered for liposuction. In this way, the cosmetic surgeon can determine if UAL or tumescent liposuction is the most appropriate course of treatment.

Qualified Medical Professionals that Perform Ultrasonic Liposuction:

UAL should be performed only by a surgeon who has been trained in the technique. Given the chance for burns and both skin and fat necrosis, with this specific technique, training and continued education is called for in a medical professional. According to the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS),

the physician performing the procedure should have completed residency training and...

The physician should have evidence of liposuction surgery training in residency or a certificate of attendance at an appropriate liposuction training course, which may include videotaped and live surgical presentation, and documentation of experience at the surgical table conducted by an appropriately trained and experienced physician. The physician performing liposuction should possess in-depth
knowledge of the skin and subcutaneous tissues ("Guidelines," 2006).

Other skills required by the physician, according to the ASDS, include knowledge of tumescent and other forms of anesthesia and fluid and electrolyte balance.

References

Guidelines of care for liposuction. (Jan 2006). Retrieved April 13, 2009, from http://www.asds.net/GuidelinesOfCareForLiposuction1.aspx.

Lawrence, N. & Coleman, W. (Dec 1997). The biologic basis of ultrasonic liposuction. Dermatologic Surgery, 23(12). Retrieved April 13, 2009, from Academic Search Complete database.

Liposuction FAQs. (2008). Retrieved April 13, 2009, from http://www.docshop.com/education/cosmetic/body/liposuction/faqs/.

Lack, E. (Aug 1998). Safety of ultrasonic-assisted liposuction (UAL) using a non-water cooled ultrasonic cannula. Dermatologic Surgery, 24(8). Retrieved April 13, 2009, from Academic Search Complete database.

Scheinfeld, N. & Zimbler, M. (19 Dec 2006). Liposuction, external ultrasound-assisted. Retrieved April 13, 2009, from http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1272747-overview.

Statement on ultrasonic liposuction. (Sept 1998). Dermatologic Surgery, 24(9). Retrieved April 13, 2009, from Academic Search Complete database.

Ultrasonic Assisted Liposuction. (2008). Retrieved April 13, 2009, from http://www.docshop.com/education/cosmetic/body/liposuction/ultrasonic/.