Classification of modern ultrasound machines. Which ultrasound machine is best? Which inexpensive ultrasound machine to choose

12.05.2020

In this article we will analyze the problems that concern specialists who want to purchase an ultrasound scanner: technical characteristics of the device, its condition, price, seller, payment method, manufacturer. All of the above is extremely important.

Where should you start choosing?

So, if you decide to buy an ultrasound machine, take your time, evaluate your requirements for the product you are purchasing according to the following five points (if you are buying for a government agency through a tender, then you can skip the first four points):

1. New/not new equipment.

Do you require new equipment exclusively, or may you consider purchasing non-new (refurbished or demo) equipment?

Non-new equipment can be of three types:

Demonstration equipment– devices that sellers present at exhibitions or testing (it is often difficult to determine how long it was used). Such devices are given a full or partial warranty.
Just used equipment. As a rule, it is sold without a warranty. The history of such devices can only be determined by the serial number.
Refurbished scanners. The body of the device is painted or completely replaced, the software is updated, and new or restored sensors are provided. Parts that have expired or are a certain percentage wear and tear are replaced with new ones (the percentage of wear is determined by those who restore the equipment). Such devices are covered by a warranty. Thus, we get an almost new scanner, as opposed to a used or demo unit.

2. Channel for bringing the ultrasound device to the market.

Official(this is the only one possible variant for public clinics). The big advantage here is the presence official service And telephone line technical support, where they will help you solve all your problems.
"Grey". In this case, you will be given documents for the device, but difficulties may arise with warranty service, service, and training.
"Black"(the so-called “in a suitcase” purchasing method) - sensors and portable scanners are imported this way. In this case, you are not protected from any risks in operating the device.
Independent purchase and transportation of the device from outside the Russian Federation. You can also use the services of third parties.

3. Required period of use of the scanner.

Temporary: you use the device for a certain period of time and then resell it
Rent: you have your own scanner, but it will not be possible to use it for some time, for example, it is under repair
Constant use : You are going to use the equipment until it becomes obsolete or fails.

4. Method of payment for equipment.

You pay the full cost of the equipment at once, in this case you can get a lower price from the seller.
You buy in installments. Unfortunately, nowadays fewer and fewer sellers are willing to provide installment plans.
You buy equipment on lease. An excellent option if you do not immediately have the required amount.

5. Scanner configuration.

Devices can vary in mobility: conditionally mobile, mobile, stationary, transformable.
Black and white (without Doppler) or color scanner (with Doppler).
Software and the number of sensors (on these issues you should consult with an ultrasound specialist working in your organization).

Selecting a scanner manufacturer and model

1. Don't buy a scanner you've never seen or used(at exhibitions or testing). Get recommendations from experts or familiar specialists. It’s better that you spend more than you regret the purchase later.

You will not be able to return the purchased scanner to the manufacturer if you are not satisfied with any of the characteristics. The fact is that medical equipment cannot be returned.

2. More expensive equipment is not always better..

Brief overview of ultrasound equipment manufacturers

Market leaders: General Electric, Toshiba, Philips, Siemens, Hitachi Aloka. The products of these companies are of high quality and have long proven themselves. Therefore, if you do not need to save money, it is better to first pay attention to scanners from these companies.

All other devices can be conditionally classified into three groups according to the level of trust in the country of origin:

Factories in Japan, USA, Europe (Italy, Denmark, Canada, France, etc.).
Factories in developing countries such as Korea, India, Israel, etc.
Factories in China.

It is very important to pay attention not only to the country in which the ultrasound scanner is assembled, but also (more importantly) in which country all its components, especially the sensors, are manufactured.

Detailed catalog of all models of ultrasound scanners present in this moment on the market, you will find in the section.

Selecting an Equipment Supplier

Suppliers can be classified into the following groups:

Manufacturers of ultrasound equipment. If manufacturers are located in Russia, then they can either distribute their products independently or through a network of dealers providing service and advertising of products. For providing repairs and information activities foreign manufacturers are responsible for exclusive distributors or representative offices.
Representative offices of manufacturing companies can perform the following functions: information support for supplied products, service bases (either in the form of independent organizations or on the basis of dealers and distributors). Official deliveries are made through them, but they do not sell equipment themselves.
Exclusive distributors- these are organizations that have entered into an agreement with the manufacturer that no one except them has the right to import goods into the territory of the Russian Federation. They are responsible for the functions of representation, and they are also obliged to ensure the repair of equipment. Exclusive distributors can sell equipment directly or through a network of dealers.
Official distributors have the right to import products, do not have all the rights of representation, but often have their own service base. They also sell either directly or through dealers. They supply equipment throughout Russia.
Authorized distributors. Their main difference from official distributors is that they supply equipment only in the part of the territory of the Russian Federation assigned to them.
Dealers. Their main goal is direct sales of ultrasound equipment to consumers; the largest ones have their own service bases.
Consumers– these are organizations that purchase ultrasound equipment for their needs.

All of the above organizations belong to the official market.

"Gray" dealers import equipment to Russia bypassing official supply routes. In theory, they provide information support and service maintenance equipment. In this case, the equipment is subject to inspection at customs, and all documents are real.
"Black" dealers equipment is imported without customs clearance. Accounting documents are either missing or fraudulent.

One organization can combine several different functions. For example, an exclusive distributor of one company can be a black dealer for another, or an authorized distributor of a brand can import the same brand through “gray” routes. Such an organization violates agreements with its main client and may be deprived of its status.

Independent research organization KLAS at one time published a report that analyzed reviews of ultrasound imaging equipment. The 2012 report is great because this information will allow us to draw parallels with today's realities and track the preferences of diagnosticians over time.

The ultrasound machines participating in this “competition” are very different. It is important that the title Best in KLAS (best in class) is awarded solely on the basis of consumer assessments, expressing their own opinions in the hope of improving the quality of health care by improving existing technological solutions.

This award recognizes not only ultrasound machines, but also equipment manufacturers that meet the needs of medical institutions by expanding functionality own products, as well as impeccable service.

It is important that the report includes more than three thousand seven hundred responses from private and public health care providers and their representatives: administrators, doctors, junior medical personnel, managers, etc. It is these people who constantly work with diagnostic equipment and related infrastructure.

How were they assessed? medical systems for ultrasound examinations? This occurred within two categories. The first of them is devices for general imaging, the second is for cardiovascular research.

Ultrasound scanners, used for general visualization purposes

This category includes units used to visualize studies carried out using ultrasound of the internal structure of the human body. Their main task is to provide a general picture, including in urological studies, diagnostic radiology, gynecological and obstetric studies and other related areas. Each ultrasound scanner was rated on a 100-point scale.

Meet the top five:

Undisputed winner - Philips iU 22 (number of points – 90.3).
In second place is ZONARE z.one ultra (points – 88.4).
Number three – ultrasound machine GE Healthcare LOGIQ E 9 (number of points – 87.5).
Solid four Siemens ACUSON S 2000 (number of points – 86.6).
Honorable fifth place – Toshiba Aplio MX (points – 84.7).

Ultrasound machines for cardiovascular research

Ultrasound scanner Philips iE 33 (score – 85.4).
Second place goes to GE Healthcare Vivid E 9 (score – 85.1).
“Medium” – GE Healthcare Vivid i (points – 2.5).
“Quad” – Toshiba Aplio CV ultrasonic scanner (score – 81.8).
Siemens ACUSON SC 2000 closes the top five (points – 79.7).

We hope that, taking into account the data obtained, ultrasound examinations in Russia will be carried out at the highest level.

The technical level largely determines the quality of visualization and operation of an ultrasound scanner. Improved equipment, a wide range of modes, functions and additional options increase the capabilities of ultrasound diagnostics, help improve the accuracy of the data obtained during the research process, establish the most reliable diagnoses, on which the effectiveness of therapy will depend in the future.

There are several classifications that distinguish all types of ultrasonic equipment into different categories. Let's look at the most basic of them for a general idea.

Classes of ultrasound scanners

The class represents technical level equipment, determined by its characteristics and parameters. For example, one of the key criteria is number of channels, on which the degree of sensitivity, resolution and price will depend.

The choice of device class should be determined by the individual criteria and requirements of the specialist who will use it in his work. Therefore, you should start from the experience and qualifications of the doctor, areas of medicine and the overall budget.

Technical descriptions and parameters for each class in different sources may differ, since there are still no clearly established criteria for distribution between classes. Usually they are only conditional.

This explains why in some sources the same models are considered as equipment of a certain class, while in other sources they can be assigned to a completely different group. According to one version, the following several classes need to be considered: initial / intermediate, high, expert / premium (premium). In our catalog, ultrasound machines are presented within this classification.

Initial and middle class

New entry-level (middle) class ultrasound machines that are being produced today are portable devices, characterized by the mobility of their design, light weight and small size, as they are intended for work outside the hospital and are often transported. The initial class consists of predominantly black and white ultrasound devices.

Equipment of this class usually supports no more than 16 reception and transmission channels, has a set of basic scanning modes and most often does not require additional options. As a rule, the price for such devices is as affordable as possible.

In some classifications, the primary and secondary classes are considered separately. It is assumed that the initial class consists of ultrasound devices with only 16 reception and transmission channels, and the middle class includes devices with 32 channels. In other classifications, the primary and secondary classes are combined into one.

High class

When purchasing equipment to equip an ultrasound room and considering models for large multidisciplinary clinics, it is recommended to choose the most modern ones. An ultrasound scanner for use in stationary conditions must be multifunctional and with the most detailed image obtained thanks to the advanced capabilities that high-end representatives have.

In addition, they have up to 64 reception and transmission channels (32, 48, 64) and most often involve color Doppler mapping. If you buy a high-end device, you can be sure of excellent visualization quality, high ergonomics, unique additional features image processing.

Expert class

Modern technologies and advanced functionality can be appreciated when working with expert (or premium) class ultrasound systems. In addition to color Doppler mapping, they provide the maximum number of reception and transmission channels (64 or more), 3D and 4D modes for volumetric scanning.

Sometimes an ultrasound scanner of this type is called “digital”, since in this class it has improved characteristics and capabilities digital processing signals. The price of expert class models will be quite high.

If you are planning to buy an ultrasound system, you should keep in mind that the price of the sensors will also depend on the class. The higher the class, the higher their cost, since in this case it is associated with the number of piezoelements in their aperture, structural features, and the presence of an additional servo drive.

Class selection – difficult decision, therefore, our specialists are ready to advise on all issues, tell you how much the equipment costs, describe the advantages and features of the ultrasound system technologies presented in our catalog, and help you purchase the right model inexpensively.

Types of Ultrasound Systems

Depending on the number and type of scanning modes provided in the ultrasound system, it is also customary to distinguish simple types devices, spectral Doppler systems and color Doppler systems.

Simple ultrasound systems

2D acoustic imaging.
Black and white color.
Modes: V, M (additional ones include: V + M, V + V).

Ultrasound systems with spectral Doppler

Availability of Doppler method for blood flow velocity analysis.
Modes: B, M, D (pulse wave Doppler PW or constant wave Doppler CW). Additional: V + M, V + V, V + D.

Ultrasound systems with color Doppler mapping

Function to display two-dimensional distribution of blood flow velocity.
The ability to highlight tissues with color for improved visualization.
Modes: V, M, D, CFM. Additional: V + M, V + V, V + D, triplex mode V + V + CFM, 3D, 4D, power doppler.

Classification by prices

Of course, the buyer is primarily interested in cost. Ultrasound machines are also classified by price categories. You need to calculate your total budget to understand which equipment will be most suitable for you.

3 - 15 thousand dollars

Thanks to Chinese ultrasound machines, which have significantly improved the technical characteristics of their equipment and the quality of visualization, and can now compete with Japanese and American manufacturers, you can buy a decent high-end diagnostic system for little money (up to 1 million rubles). Of course, if we are talking about Philips or Aloka Hitachi devices, then for this money you will not be able to purchase even an entry-level device.

15 - 30 thousand dollars

This price category includes many modern mid- and high-class diagnostic systems from European, American and Japanese brands. The most popular and well-known manufacturers today are Philips, Mindray, Esaote, where you can find ultrasound equipment in this price segment.

30-50 thousand dollars and above

Ultrasound systems of high and expert class are among the most expensive. This is a completely new image quality, improved technical characteristics, improved ergonomics, powerful ultrasound, and modern innovative technologies.

At this price you can purchase products from well-known Japanese, American and European manufacturers. Typically these are systems with 3D\4D technology, the largest possible number of reception and transmission channels and color Doppler mapping.

One of the recognized leaders in this area is the Japanese manufacturer Hitachi Aloka.

The reliability of ultrasound results directly depends not only on the experience and competence of the specialist, but also on the quality of visualization. That is why choosing equipment is a responsible step. Check out the catalog containing best models Ultrasound of the world's leading brands. We will help you make the right decision and inexpensively purchase the best equipment with modern capabilities.

Ultrasound is widely used in medicine today. Ultrasound examination is the most popular non-invasive diagnostic method. Due to the high information content of this type of research, some other, previously popular types diagnostics But, most importantly, ultrasound examination has provided a unique opportunity to clearly visualize the internal organs and tissues of a person without risks to health or any pain.

This examination is based on the use of ultrasonic waves. Ultrasound passes through tissue boundaries and is reflected due to certain frequency vibrations. To study different parts of the body, certain frequencies are selected.

Modern ultrasound machines provide a wide range of diagnostic capabilities. Ultrasound diagnostics today is in great demand in almost all areas of medicine. All medical, diagnostic, health resort centers and private clinics have an ultrasound room. Patients trust this type of diagnosis. Medical specialists place high bets on the results of examinations using an ultrasound machine. This technique allows for the earliest and most accurate identification of serious pathologies. And, this, in turn, gives a great chance of preventing the development of serious complications. Some types of ultrasound systems are used not only in diagnostics. Ultrasound is used to carry out some medical procedures that are aimed at creating a therapeutic effect.

Based on the many positive results shown by the use of ultrasound equipment, we can conclude that purchasing an ultrasound machine is cost-effective. After all, such medical equipment shows impressive payback periods. True, such a statement is true only if the ultrasound machine is chosen correctly.

The modern medical equipment market is simply amazing with the abundance of offers of equipment for ultrasound scanning of the human body. Before choosing one or another device, it would be nice to understand what differences modern ultrasound scanners have and what are the advantages and features different types ultrasonic equipment.

Types of Ultrasonic Devices

When choosing a device, you need to decide what type of equipment is needed in each specific case. For example, you can choose a stationary ultrasound machine, which will be located in a certain office, and move as needed around the perimeter of one floor. In a number of situations, it is worth choosing a portable ultrasound scanner that can be moved throughout the medical facility without any problems. There are also transformable and conditionally mobile (portable) devices.

Stationary ultrasound scanners are considered the most highly functional. Such medical equipment is usually designed for a wide range of examinations. Each health care facility has at least one stationary ultrasound machine. Portable versions of such equipment are designed to work in so-called field conditions, and provide the possibility of a rather limited functional set. Mobile ultrasound scanners are a necessary addition to the main list of medical equipment of a medical institution.

Also, when choosing ultrasound equipment, specialization is an important point. After all, the device can be used for screening diagnostics or a more narrow area of research.

For example, it is not at all necessary to choose the latest generation ultrasound scanner for a general ultrasound diagnostic room. Oh, but at the family planning center an ultrasound machine with 4-D function and Doppler would not hurt. A cardiology center requires a highly specialized, highly functional ultrasound device that will most effectively assess the state of the cardiovascular system through volumetric visualization and quantitative analysis tools.

It is also important to understand that medicine does not stand still and the range of services that require ultrasound equipment is constantly expanding. Based on this, you should give preference to scanners that have the possibility of retrofitting. Simply put, you need to choose an ultrasound scanner based on your current tasks, taking into account the possibility of modernization.

When choosing medical equipment important parameter is the price of the device. There is no need to skimp on quality. If you don’t have enough money for a new, highly functional premium device, you should pay attention to refurbished equipment. Many reputable companies offer consumers services for selling high-quality refurbished equipment. This unique opportunity get a device that meets high requirements and has passed all the necessary tests at a lower price.

Main types of sensors

One of the most important elements of any ultrasound device is the sensor. The quality of visualization and the depth of examination of internal organs and tissues directly depend on the sensor. The list of ultrasonic sensors included with the device affects the price level of the entire system. Sensors can also be purchased separately.

There are several types of ultrasound sensors:

Linear.
Convex.
Microconvex.
Intracavity.
Sectoral.
Sector phased.
Matrix.
3D and 4D sensors.
Laparascopic.
Catheterial.
Biplane.

Each of the listed types of sensors is characterized by a certain operating frequency and scanning depth. Different sensors are capable of providing a certain level of image. Based on technical characteristics, sensors are selected to solve various medical problems.

For example, linear sensors are suitable for scanning superficial organs, joints and tissues.

This is what a linear sensor looks like:

Convex, microconvex, and intracavitary ultrasound sensors are more suitable for deep scanning. Deep Scan Sensor:

To obtain a three-dimensional image and the ability to visualize projections and sections, matrix or 3D-4D sensors are required. An example of a fetus image in 3D projection:

This type of sensor is widely used today in the field of obstetrics and gynecology.

Needle sensors are used to study hard-to-reach areas of the body, such as blood vessels, heart, etc.

Each individual medical field uses different types of sensors. For example, there are special pediatric, cardiological, gynecological, biopsy and other types of sensors.

Ultrasound scanners

Based on the technical characteristics that directly determine the quality of the obtained diagnostic data, the following ultrasound scanners are distinguished:

Simple ultrasound scanners.
Middle class devices.
Ultrasound scanners of a higher class of capabilities.
High-end ultrasound machines (High-end).

Simple devices are distinguished by capabilities limited to sixteen reception and transmission channels.
Middle-class devices most often have 32 reception and transmission channels.
Ultrasound scanners of an advanced level have up to 64 reception and transmission channels. Additionally, such devices are equipped with color Doppler mapping.
High-quality ultrasound machines are characterized by almost perfect technical characteristics. These are digital platforms with a number of reception and transmission channels of 64 or more. These scanners are equipped with color Doppler and digital systems for data processing.

All ultrasound scanners are equipped with the ability to connect various ultrasound sensors to them. Some devices offer the ability to connect additional equipment to them. Such systems can significantly expand diagnostic ability and functionality.

Multifunctional ultrasound scanners can be represented by large stationary systems or mobile ergonomic complexes.

Areas of application of ultrasound machines

Ultrasound diagnostics is one of the most widely used research methods in various areas of medicine.

The following areas of application of ultrasonic devices can be distinguished:

Ophthalmology.
Obstetrics and gynecology.
Cardiology.
Gastroenterology.
Endocrinology.
Echoencephalography.

Ultrasound is an absolutely harmless, safe, non-invasive diagnostic method that allows you to obtain relatively accurate data on the condition of the internal organs and tissues of the human body.

The ability of ultrasound is limited to hard bone tissue only. Therefore, ultrasound diagnostics is not used to study the cerebral cortex and skeletal system. Simply put, ultrasound machines are used in any medical facility today. Ultrasound diagnostics are often carried out in health resort organizations. Such equipment has not bypassed the field of medical cosmetology.

It is worth noting that ultrasound scanners have found application not only in many areas of medicine, but also in veterinary medicine. In veterinary medicine, high-tech ultrasound devices are used in the same way to effectively diagnose pathologies of internal organs and tissues of animals.

Where to buy an ultrasound machine

Ultrasound systems are quite serious medical equipment that must be purchased from reliable suppliers of medical supplies.

Rumex Group has a strong position in the medical sector for more than 20 years. The company is a major supplier of medical diagnostic equipment. Rumex Group offers ultrasound systems from the leading manufacturer of medical equipment - Philips. You can purchase diagnostic equipment from us High Quality new or refurbished. The ultrasound systems we offer are distinguished by excellent visualization quality, an extensive list of functional capabilities and all the necessary additions that allow you to receive reports on important indicators automatically.

For a person far from medicine, all ultrasound machines look the same. In fact, there are dozens of modifications of ultrasound devices and sensors that help doctors study any organs and tissues of the human body. Therefore, when making an appointment for an ultrasound, do not forget to ask which device will be used to examine you.

How an ultrasound machine works: the basics

Ultrasound diagnostics (sonography) is a method of examining the patient’s internal organs using ultrasound without the use of needles and other surgical instruments. It is the ultrasound examination that is accepted as the gold standard for primary examination throughout the world.

The ultrasound machine operates based on the piezoelectric effect. Inside the sensor, which is moved over the surface of the body, there are microcrystals of quartz, titanium or barium. When submitting electric current Mechanical vibrations occur inside the crystals, which create ultrasonic waves with a frequency of up to 29 MHz. A special acoustic lens helps select a wave of a certain length. The higher the frequency of the ultrasonic wave, the more capabilities the device has.

Each organ or its department has an acoustic resistance unique to it. If the tissues to which the ultrasound wave is directed have different acoustic resistance (this is typical for lumps, cysts, neoplasms), one part of the wave is absorbed and the other is reflected.

The greater the differences in tissue, the greater the signal intensity. On the screen, areas that differ from neighboring tissues in density and other characteristics are displayed lighter and brighter. This effect is called echogenicity.

What does an ultrasound machine consist of?

Despite some features and design differences, all ultrasound machines have the same components.

The “heart” of the device is ultrasonic transducer, inside of which piezoelements such as quartz or barium crystals are placed. Under the influence of electricity that comes from the central processor, the crystals begin to vibrate and spread ultrasonic signals around them.

The central processor makes all the calculations, and with the help of a pulse control sensor you can change the characteristics of the emitted ultrasonic pulses. An acoustic lens helps focus on a specific wave, and a sound-absorbing layer filters the displayed waves.

Thanks to the display, you can see a picture of the organ being examined and its surrounding tissues and structures. For best quality Images in the ultrasound machine have a radio frequency amplifier, video and sound amplifier.

Using a cursor and keyboard, the specialist enters certain parameters or processes the received data. The reflected ultrasonic waves return to the transducer and are transmitted to the central processor. It calculates the speed of signal return and the distance from the sensor to the tissue.

The control sensor changes different scanning modes:

mode A shows the amplitude of the reflected echo signal;
M mode visualizes the organ in motion;
mode B displays a two-dimensional image in which any changes in echogenicity are visible. 20 pictures change per minute, which creates the illusion of movement;
mode D is based on the Doppler effect, therefore it is used to study the patient’s blood flow.

On your hard drive or CD or DVD discs all information is saved. If desired, the client is given a printout or copy of the video recording (for example, the movements of the fetus - the unborn baby).

Types of ultrasound machines: not good and bad, but powerful and super powerful

If we consider the differences in the parameters and features of the image obtained on the monitor screen, then all ultrasound machines are conditionally divided into 3 categories:

Ultrasound machines also differ in other characteristics.

By image quality:

Conventional sonographs (have 16 transmission and reception channels).
Medium technical class devices (over 32 channels).
Ultrasound machines with increased capabilities (over 48).
High-end devices (over 64).
Expert class devices (several hundred channels).

Main technical parameter, which distinguishes devices of different levels, is the number of receiving and transmitting channels. The more there are, the higher the sensitivity and, accordingly, the resolution.

By specific application:

Ultrasound scanners. They work in 2D mode and give a two-dimensional picture. It has two operating modes: two-dimensional image (mode B) and one-dimensional echogram (mode M).

Highly specialized:

Echoophthalmometer. Visualizes the structure of the eye in two- and one-dimensional images. In addition to modes B and M, it has mode D - spectral analysis of blood flow velocities using pulsed Doppler (PW) and continuous Doppler (CW).
Fetal monitor. Measures the fetal heart rate. Detects pathologies of heart development in the early stages of pregnancy.

Ultrasound with Doppler

with spectral Doppler (duplex devices). Display the work of blood flow in modes B, M and D;
with color Doppler mapping. In addition to the same functions as a device with spectral Doppler, blood flow is displayed on a gray scale image of tissue. This is a rare device for specialized research.

Encephaloscope. This ultrasound machine is designed for neurosurgical research. Through the temple area, various brain structures are examined. The device operates on the basis of the transcranial method, which examines the characteristics of blood flow and identifies its disturbances. The encephaloscope records ultrasound signals reflected from various blood elements moving in the same direction. Then the received information is processed and displayed on the screen.

The brain absorbs much more blood than any other organ. In addition, it is very sensitive to hypoxia - lack of oxygen. Encephalography allows you to see the condition of the vessels and arteries that supply the brain, as well as identify pathologies such as abscesses, hemorrhages, cysts, hematomas, pertificates (deposition of calcium salts on the walls of blood vessels), gummas (scars), etc.

Sinuscope. This is a special ultrasound machine that examines the frontal and maxillary sinuses. It analyzes the ultrasound reflected from the walls of the nose. If the sinuses are full, a picture is displayed on the monitor screen in graphic form. The sinuscope helps to detect sinusitis, sinusitis, pharyngitis, and inflammation of the sinuses in the early stages.

Depending on the sensor type

Linear. They have a frequency of 5-15 MHz, scanning depth reaches 11 cm. The sensor is wide enough to image the entire organ. The displayed image is clear and high resolution. Does not adhere tightly to the skin, requires the use of gel.
Convex. They have a frequency of 1.9-7.5 MHz, viewing depth no more than 25 cm. Fits tightly to the skin. Displays a narrow and somewhat distorted picture.
Sectoral. The frequency is 1.5–5 MHz. The image is large and deep.
Sectoral phased. The sensor has the form of a grating, each sector of which allows you to change the scanning angle. Different parts of the array independently receive and emit ultrasonic waves.
Intracavity. They look like a beveled or straight handle and are placed inside the body (in the vagina or rectum).
3D or 4D volumetric sensors. It has a circular rotation that allows you to do slice-by-slice scanning, converting it into a three- or four-dimensional image.
Matrix. They have a two-dimensional lattice. One-and-a-half-dimensional - the picture is longer in length than in width. This results in maximum thickness resolution. Two-dimensional. Have a large number of elements, which allows you to make pictures in different projections simultaneously.
Pencils. In them, the emitter and display are separated. Used to study arteries and veins.

By Application

Universal abdominal probe for external use. Used to study the pelvic organs. They have a frequency of 3.5-5 MHz, opens a view of 40-90 0 .
Ultrasound devices small parts probe. The operating frequency is 7.5-10 MHz. The sensor has a width of 25-50 mm. It is used in the study of the thyroid gland, joints, and peripheral vessels.
Cardiological ultrasound machine cardiac probe. Taking into account the peculiarities of the intercostal space, the device has a sector-type sensor with a frequency of 3.5 or 5 MHz. Used in cardiology.

Intracavitary ultrasound devices intracavitary probes.

transvaginal. They have a frequency of 5.6 or 7.5 MHz and are used in gynecology;
transrectal. Allows scanning at a 360 angle 0 ;
intraoperative. They are put on the finger and have a large radius of curvature;
transurethral. They are very small in size and are inserted through the ureter into the bladder;
transesophageal. They help examine the heart from below from the esophagus.
intravascular.

What additional functions are equipped with ultrasound machines?

Modern ultrasound machines have a lot of innovative functions that significantly increase the quality of the examination. Such developments include the following:

The ClearVision function converts low-resolution and low-quality images into a clear and bright picture. This is a kind of filter that eliminates speckle noise and artifacts. as a result, the image has a clear contrast at the border of tissues with different echo densities;
SonoView function - special program, allowing you to archive images and create databases;
Cine memory function - the ability to rewind video and storyboard it; connectors for multiple sensors;
TEI function - visualization in gray scale mode. This allows you to increase the level of clarity, contrast and reduce the number of artifacts. The technology makes it possible to see clear boundaries of tumors, which would have been impossible to do in obese patients without the use of innovation;
The TP-View function allows linear sensors to increase the viewing surface. All measurements are displayed in one photo;
The XLight function makes it possible to improve the image of anatomical structures on three-dimensional image. Thanks to data processing, you can see clearly drawn details. In obstetrics, this function helps to identify abnormalities in fetal development, regardless of the amount of amniotic fluid and the position of the fetus. In XLight surgery you can also see the condition of the bone structure;
The CrystaLine function allows you to synchronize the operation of the ultrasound machine with the operation of the medical laser. This makes it possible to use the device in minimally invasive operations;
The VPan Imaging function is designed to obtain a panoramic image (of the spinal canal in the fetus, oncological processes in the stomach). The picture has a sequential storyboard that reconstructs the entire study area.