What is a common indication for utilizing an ultrasound?

Monitoring fetal development during pregnancy is a common indication for utilizing ultrasound due to its ability to provide real-time images of the developing fetus without the use of ionizing radiation. Ultrasound is safe and effective for assessing various aspects of pregnancy, including the fetus's growth, anatomy, and well-being. It can help identify potential abnormalities, monitor heart rates, and determine gestational age, making it a crucial tool in prenatal care.

In contrast, while some other options may involve imaging modalities, they are not common uses for ultrasound. For instance, checking for bone fractures typically employs X-rays due to their specificity in detecting bony injuries. Detecting tumors in skeletal muscle usually relies on MRI or CT scans for better visualization of soft tissues. Additionally, while ultrasounds can assist in guidance for biopsies, the primary imaging modality for performing biopsies often involves CT or MRI for deeper organ tissue visualization. Therefore, the use of ultrasound in monitoring fetal development is well-established and widely practiced.