| Summary: | Diagnostic ultrasound has been in clinical use for more than 25 years, during which time it has been introduced into nearly all clinical disciplines. No substantial arguments for any adverse ef fects have been found. It is therefore commonly accepted that sono graphy is safe and causes no health risks. However, safety is not a property that can be proved experimentally; rather, it is character ized by the absence of detectable adverse effects in various relevant investigations. It is reasonable always to reconsider this assumption of safety by evaluating the latest results of ultrasound bioeffect re search. Thus the European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology (EFSUMB) decided to establish a bio effect group with the task of - assessing existing documentation on the subject - carrying out a continuing review of the literature, particularly in relation to any new evidence that might modify existing conclu sions and recommendations - making reports to the membership on the state of the subject at such times and in such ways as seems appropriate The Watchdog Group was instituted in 1979 and named the Euro pean Committee for Ultrasonic Radiation Safety. It comprises ex perts in the field on an interdisciplinary basis, including physicists, biologists, gynecologists, and a geneticist. Since its formation the Watchdog Group has met once a year to discuss relevant topics. Its activities include the composition of reports, statements, and publi cations, as well as the organization of panel discussions
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