Sonography of the tongue and floor of mouth. Part I: Anatomy.

Normal structures of the tongue and floor of the mouth were studied using anatomic sections cut with a stainless steel band saw. The sections were performed on the same planes as used in US and CT scanning. The ultrasound studies were carried out with 20 young and healthy volunteers. CT images were obtained from head-neck preparations that were subsequently used for anatomic sectioning. On comparing these sections to US and CT images, normal structures including intrinsic and extrinsic tongue muscles, vessels and salivary glands were identified. Knowledge of the anatomic landmarks is mandatory for optimal US image reading.