1426 Pasadena Ave S., South Pasadena, FL 33707
dog getting an ultrasound

Veterinary Ultrasound, or sonography, is becoming increasingly important in animal healthcare. More vets are performing ultrasounds on cats, dogs, horses, and any other animal patients. The market for ultrasound equipment has grown, and so does the technology. Sonographers are looking for the best imaging system to stay ahead of the rising demand for animal ultrasound services.

The growing use of Ultrasound in the animal healthcare

Ultrasound has become cheaper and more portable compared to other advanced imaging technologies such as CT and MRI. It is also easier to use since it is non-invasive and non-radiographic, and many vets can now affordably perform sonography in the comfort of their own hospital. The number of veterinarians performing ultrasounds is likely to increase in 2021 as more people are seeing the incredible value of this technology.

Requirements for ultrasound technicians

Are you contemplating a career in veterinary medicine? You will notice that many colleges and universities offer vet-related programs. Many of these programs include courses in diagnostic imaging or Ultrasound. Additionally, the Veterinary Support Personnel Network (VSPN) is encouraging vets to train for sonography.

Are you a practicing veterinary professional already? You can take continuing education courses offered in the numerous colleges and universities across the country. You will be increasing your diagnostic capabilities by adopting this powerful tool. Operating an ultrasound and obtaining the perfect images requires training, although you don’t need to be a vet.

Ultrasound tools and equipment

A sonographer can only be as efficient as the ultrasound system they use. This means that a successful career in imaging requires the best imaging machine you can find. If you wonder where to start in the journey to acquire the best Ultrasound, you could try devices from Samsung by contacting our experts at Choice Medical Systems.

Featuring innovative technology and high-end imaging capabilities, Samsung ultrasounds are the ideal partner for veterinary diagnostic imaging services. These imaging devices boast the best image quality available, meaning they provide more accurate images for better diagnosis than other brands.

Samsung’s ultrasounds are also spearheading the integration of cutting-edge technology. You can expect wireless connectivity and streamlined workflow in all of their systems. Such features will enhance its functionality and provide faster and more accurate diagnosis. 

More energy-efficient Ultrasound

Our systems use solid state harddrives as well as low noise and heat filters to ensure a quiet and comfortable scan room. This leads to longer lasting ultrasounds and less money spent on repairs. 

We also offer technical classes and help you to choose the best Ultrasound for you. If you need more information, please contact us or request a quote. 

Price
$
Quantity:
Add To Quote
male and female vet with scruffy dog

Finding the best veterinary ultrasound classes and training institutions can be quite difficult. Which is why we will be exploring the classes that Choice Medical offers. Keep in mind that you also get training included when you purchase a new veterinary ultrasound system! Well, let us take a closer look at some of the options available.

Onsite Training

Onsite training allows you to learn from a specialist with more than 30 years of experience in the field. Danielle Muauragis, CVT, retired from the University of Florida to join the Choice Medical Team. Her thirty years at the Diagnostic Imaging Service guarantees you get a talented and qualified tutor.

Onsite training also gets you one-on-one training, which is extremely valuable when improving your ultrasound skill set. You can also easily customize the entire course to specifically align with the objectives of your veterinary practice and team. Note that you do not have to be a current customer to get in-hospital training so inquire today for more information!

Educational seminars

Choice Medical organizes ultrasound educational seminars with WAVE veterinary education located in Dallas, Texas. The advantage of these seminars is the fact that you get a very structured course that includes both lecture and hands on scanning. We have options ranging from beginner to advanced! Training with other attendees helps put more minds together and oftentimes questions are brought up that you wouldn’t have thought of yourself.

Note that the room reservations are done by the individual. The seminar is centered on a first-come-first-served basis, which means you need to book your spot early. The good news is that you can take advantage of the corporate rate by mentioning ‘WAVE’ during the registration process.

Basic Ultrasound Class

The basic ultrasound class by Choice Medical is sponsored by Samsung Ultrasound. It offers the trainees a chance to learn how to identify ultrasound cases, create an interpretable study, incorporate ultrasound into a practice, and identify the five vital abdominal organs.

Learners will comfortably create diagnostic images by the end of this class. Note that the class involves hands-on training that helps trainees master manipulation of the knobs. You will, certainly, find this fundamental class as a great starting point to grow the ultrasound service in your practice when you sign up.

Intermediate Ultrasound Class

Also sponsored by Samsung Ultrasound, the Intermediate class helps learners learn the abnormal and normal appearance of different organs. Trainees will also get to sharpen their skills on machine controls, suitable scanning techniques, measurements, and so much more.

The hands-on class will directly focus on the scan technique used, anatomy recognition, and creating a suitable diagnostic scan. The biggest advantage of this class is that it is taught by a Board-Certified Radiologist with years of experience. You will get to learn from one of the best veterinary radiologists around, which is a huge plus.

Conclusion

Choice Medical Systems Inc. is here to help with top-quality veterinary ultrasound classes and training. Understand that you get amazing training and professional insight when you sign up for any of the classes. Contact us today to ensure you benefit from this amazing deal. Our staff will help you determine which class or training course is suitable for you or your staff.

Price
$
Quantity:
Add To Quote
cat getting an ultrasound from a female veterinarian

When using a veterinary ultrasound machine, you want to avoid mistakes and offer quality service to your patients. Avoiding mistakes can save you time and give you a return on investment for each quality service you offer. Here are some common mistakes that you can avoid when using a veterinary ultrasound machine:

  1. Lack of a Plan

    As a veterinarian, you need to have a plan to recommend ultrasound services to your clients and implement it in your practice. Investing in ultrasound equipment will help you offer better services as you assess and treat the animals. Using the equipment will give you a return on investment. However, the lack of planning in advance might lead to not using the ultrasound at all.

  2. Lack of Confidence

    Not having confidence can make you doubt your abilities and fail to perform the ultrasound even though you are qualified and capable. You need to have the confidence to recommend ultrasound services to your clients and implement it. You also need to be confident that you can successfully perform an ultrasound and give an accurate assessment. Confidence will increase your frequency of performing the ultrasound, and the more you use the machine, the more comfortable you will become using it.

  3. Not Understanding the Controls

    Trying to set up and press controls in the middle of an ultrasound can be tricky, especially when the animal is not sedated. When performing an ultrasound on an animal that’s not sedated, you will need to do it accurately and as quickly as possible. However, not understanding how the machine works and searching controls in the middle of the ultrasound can make the whole process complex.

  4. Lack of Training

    Lack of training can cause an inaccurate assessment of an ultrasound. As a veterinarian, you can invest in an in-person training with an instructor. The instructor will guide you through the various stages from simple to more advanced ultrasound. Training on how to perform an ultrasound on multiple organs and how to use the ultrasound machine will give you the confidence to recommend it and to perform it well. At Choice Medical we provide several training sessions. Sign up for an upcoming class today!

  5. Poor Image-Quality

    Producing poor images when using ultrasound can greatly impact on your assessment. Poor image quality can be caused by a lack of training on how to use the ultrasound machine. Most experts can easily produce high-quality images. However, if you are just starting out, frequent use and training will help deliver the best images. Most ultrasound systems produce the best images, but if you don’t know how to use it, the images might be fuzzy.

Conclusion

Common mistakes that typically happen when using an ultrasound machine can be easily avoided. Having a plan and implementing it confidently as well as getting trained can help prevent these mistakes. Knowing how to operate the veterinary machine and using the preset functions will help you save time. Contact our team today to sign up for a class or ask about our Samsung Ultrasounds and other products. We provide honest, accurate, and knowledgeable information and are excited to serve you!

Price
$
Quantity:
Add To Quote

More and more veterinarians are turning to ultrasound technology as their choice for quality diagnostics and imaging. Ultrasonography is faster, non-invasive, and far more accurate than radiography in evaluating internal organs and aiding in diagnosis. Ultrasounds allow clinicians to locate and pinpoint detailed information or review organ architecture. More affordable than ever, ultrasound machines are becoming the standard of care across the field, from general practices and emergency clinics, to specialty hospitals and universities.

When considering different ultrasound systems, there are several factors to determine which system is right for your practice. With the wide variety of machine types available, it may be helpful to consider how you plan on using the tools and which diagnostic features you’ll need for your unique needs so you can make an informed decision. To help you select the right ultrasound machine, we have outlined the different types of ultrasound machines and why they’re generally accepted among clinics. 

Portability 

The smaller size and mobile design of some ultrasound machines make them easy to carry throughout your practice or even offsite. Whether you’re a specialty hospital or a general practice, compact machines are great for niche practices and open up possibilities for specialties like equine, marine and beyond. Compact systems such as the Samsung HS30, HS40, HS60, HS70A, RS80A or Ibex® Evo can improve a practice’s efficiency and workflow by saving time and adding convenience. Compact designs allow these machines to collapse, freeing up more valuable space. The flexible features and simple, streamlined design of these machines make them easy to adjust to a variety of scenarios and unique practice needs. 

Some machines such as the HM70A or the Ibex® Evo run on extended battery power, which can be helpful for reliability for those who may not have access to power or need to travel from site to site. 

Appropriate Probes 

Ultrasound probes (or “transducers”) are the part of the device used to send waves into the patient and produce echoes and images. Different practices may require different types of probes based on the size or type of animals they treat.  Universities or specialty practices may need a wide assortment of probes paired with their machine to meet the practices’ versatile needs.  

Convex or micro-convex probes such as the CF4-9 or the CA2-8AD are a great choice for most patients and can be used on smaller animals to scan their hearts. Large-animal practices may prefer the larger-radius CA2-8AD probe for more penetration and scope. 

Clinics treating smaller animals such as cats or rabbits may find smaller probes with high frame rates more useful. Linear transducers are useful for small dogs, cats, or smaller pets and targeting superficial organs at a high resolution. Powerful transducers like the LA4-18B or LA3-16AD provide a close look at the GI or intricate body parts. 

Phased array probes such as the P3-8 allow for advanced cardiac imaging and work great for scanning hearts in both large and small patients. 

Affordability 

One major factor in selecting the right ultrasound machine is cost. We can help you find the best system for you based on your practice’s budget and needs, whether refurbished or new, simple or more sophisticated. The Samsung HS40 and HS60 offer high-quality versatility and ease of use while remaining affordable. These systems are a great choice for those newer to ultrasounds or with lower patient volumes, while maintaining reliability and excellent resolution.   

Refurbished systems are also a great choice for any industry, from large to small animal, specialty, and beyond. We at Choice Medical distribute machines from several manufacturers that go through our 23 point refurbishment process at all price ranges and can guide you toward the system that is best for your practice. Refurbished is also a great option for practices who are looking to see if ultrasound is a good fit for their hospital.

Training

Need tips on how to incorporate ultrasound into your practice and get your money’s worth? Our team offers onsite, hands-on training courses and seminars based on your staff’s experience level, from basic to intermediate classes. Contact us at (727) 513-7010 for a quote, or join our mailing list to be notified of new training courses.

Price
$
Quantity:
Add To Quote

I would like to share a recent visit to an amazing clinic (I mean it goes without saying that every clinic I visit is amazing!) for ultrasound training. The Pets R Family Veterinary Hospital is in St. Johns, Florida where  Drs. Deckard, McDivitt,. Motycka and Hashey depend on their Samsung HS 40 https://choicemedical.com/samsung-veterinary-ultrasound/hs40/  to strengthen their commitment to quality veterinary care for their patients. What an amazing group of veterinarians that are passionate to provide exemplary patient care and fortify the human-animal bond. As I was driving home and ruminating I realized that it was yet another amazing day of learning and fellowship! So, that got me to thinking. Maybe I should share what happens on training days.

     Once the date is set I get excited about the day I get to travel and share some knowledge!   For the veterinary ultrasound training, whether you have a Samsung or a different system, each person usually spends about two hours performing a full abdominal scan. Why so long you ask? Well, this gives time to pause and have discussions and talk about techniques and allows for breaks to rest your hand and brain! 

    We usually need 3-5 dog volunteers (hopefully a cat or two) with the possibility that we may not scan all of them but, it is better to have too many than not enough. Each session is unique and you can never predict how fast or how slow the exams will be since everyone learns at their own pace.  Preferably, but not necessary, I like to have volunteers that we can sedate. This is best because it is hard to learn on a moving target and some awake patients tend to have abs of steel and it is more difficult to scan a tense abdomen! Not excluded are clinical patients that may need to be scanned as part of the ultrasound training and this is great because it gives a chance to find the abnormal (although a lot of these patients tend to be normal!)   

    Vet ultrasound is definitely a modality that takes some skill and practice to become proficient.  Not only handling the transducer but recognizing organs and structures. Then once identified, determining whether those structures are normal or abnormal.  When I was learning ultrasound I had the amazing opportunity to sit, watch, and learn everything about ultrasound. Not everyone has that opportunity and because of that fact, I make it my mission to share the knowledge given to me with anyone who wants to become more knowledgeable and more practiced at using ultrasounds! 

      I have had the opportunity to go to many great clinics, make new friends, and catch up with alums.  I impart some knowledge, learn something new (always!),  and leave with a sense of accomplishment. 

                             

https://www.petsrfamilyvet.com/    

Price
$
Quantity:
Add To Quote

Let’s talk about measurements.  You are scanning and scrutinizing the organs for their echotexture, echogenicity, size, and shape and in doing so we are trying to determine normal or abnormal to give us some clue as to whether there is a disease process going on or not (remembering that some organs can appear normal sonographically but may still have disease). But we do know that disease processes can alter organ size. So, we have measurements that have been published for normal sizes of certain organs. Now the caveat to this is that there is no one concrete measurement for each organ instead there are ranges and vary depending on which publication you read. 

With this blog my goal will be to give you a general reference measurement of the organs that will be the most pertinent to the general practitioner with the understanding that these are guidelines. Relying heavily on measurements is at best unreliable. One has to take into effect operator reliability and repeatability.  Hopefully, you have purchased an ultrasound book and are using it to help you scan. Within the ultrasound book is the information on measurements and their parameters.  I will list some of the ultrasound books available at the end of this blog.  The measurements here are taken from these texts.

     So, with that in mind let’s get started. 

  1. Duodenum – measure the height from the edge of the serosa to the lumen 
    • Dog Up to 6 mm 
    • Cat  2 – 2.5 mm

 

  1. Gallbladder Wall 
    • Dog  2-3 mm
    • Cat  <1mm

  1. Colon – measure height from serosa to lumen
    • Dog  2 – 3 mm
    • Cat   1 mm

  1. Jejunum measure as you would duodenum from serosal edge to lumen.
    • Dog  2 – 5 mm
    • Cat   2 – 2.5 mm

  1. Ileum
    • Dog  2 – 4 mm    This is not a normal ileum, could probably find a better example- hard to see wall layering here
    • Cat   2.5 – 3.2 mm

  1. Gastric wall
    • Dog 3 – 5 mm

    • Cat  2 mm (inter-rugal)3,4 and 4 mm (rugal fold thickness)

  1. Kidney – measured in the longitudinal/sagittal plane
    • Dog  Currently, there is no widely accepted method for determining ultrasonographically normal kidney size for dogs. Ultrasonographic size is usually subjective.
    • Cat  3 and 4.3 cm

  1. Adrenal – measure at the caudal pole in longitudinal/sagittal plane
    • Dog  up to 7.4 mm

    • Cat   3.7 – 4.9 mm

  1. Lymph nodes – measure in longitudinal/sagittal plane
    • Dog and Cat  < 5mm

  1. Prostate measure in the longitudinal/sagittal and transverse planes.The size and position of the normal canine prostate gland can vary with age, size, and intact or neutered status of the animal. In sexually immature or neutered dogs, the prostate is much smaller and often has a relatively hypoechoic and homogeneous appearance. Measurements for the prostate can be used to document the progression of disease or response to treatment.

There you have it.  Some of the measurements that are pertinent.  I gently remind you that measurements are guidelines and there is room for operator error.  When in doubt refer to Ultrasound books and publications for guidance!

References: Nyland and Mattoon, D’Anjou and Penninck, Today’s Veterinary Practice, and Dr. Federico Vilaplana Grosso, LV, DECVDI, DACVR

 

Ultrasound Books and Materials

Small Animal Diagnostic Ultrasound

Authors: John Mattoon Thomas Nyland

eBook ISBN: 9781437701975

eBook ISBN: 9780323242967

Hardcover ISBN: 9781416048671

 

Atlas of Small Animal Ultrasonography

by Dominique Penninck (Editor), Marc-André d’Anjou (Editor)

ISBN-13: 978-1118359983

ISBN-10: 9781118359983

 

Today’s Veterinary Practice Official Journal of NAVC

Free online – Past issues: Search Imaging Essentials Ultrasound

Price
$
Quantity:
Add To Quote
curious dog

Veterinary ultrasound units are becoming more popular in recent years, and for good reason. Diagnosing animal patients can be a tricky matter even in the best of times, and ultrasound can allow a “look inside” at soft tissue and abdominal organs that a conventional exam or X-ray may miss.

Why Use Ultrasound For Veterinary Patients?

Diagnosing veterinary patients quickly and efficiently is vital for any veterinary practice as well as the patients themselves. Running multiple diagnostic tests or trying a variety of treatments on a patient may require a lot of time and resources, and in a trauma setting, time is of the essence. Ultrasound units can lessen the time of diagnosis while giving you fast answers when you need them.

Incorporating the use of veterinary ultrasound will not only improve the accuracy and speed of a diagnosis, but can be used on a variety of patients as well, ranging from large dogs to exotic pets, small animals, and even aquatics. High-resolution images will speed diagnosis and treatment in both the trauma and general setting. Ultrasound can also be used to guide procedures such as needle aspiration and biopsy, reducing errors.

Purchasing The Right Unit For Your Practice

Deciding on the right ultrasound unit for your practice can feel like an overwhelming task. Many different ultrasound units are available from Samsung, ranging from budget-friendly basic units for general practitioners to impressive high-end units useful for specialists.

Thankfully, we at Choice Medical are ready to help you decide which ultrasound unit is right for your practice before you make such an important purchase. When you purchase your unit through Choice Medical, our friendly, knowledgeable specialists provide on-site training so you and your staff can learn how to best use your new ultrasound unit. You can even request a live demonstration of any ultrasound unit before deciding to purchase. Be sure to contact us for more information.

Incorporating Ultrasound Into Your Veterinary Practice

Veterinary ultrasound is capable of much more than simply creating diagnostic images. In a general setting, ultrasound will aid with diagnostic tasks such as finding solid masses in soft tissue, comparing previous diagnostic images to current ones, and will also aid with needle targeting during procedures. This tool will make many diagnostic procedures and interventions flow more smoothly. Many ultrasound units can run off battery power and all are portable, enabling the veterinarian to move the unit from room to room as needed. Many can also work well in different levels of lighting, making them versatile, and most units are quiet, allowing procedures to take place during imaging. 

For the specialist who purchases a new, high-end ultrasound unit, their routine assessments of heart function, heart disease risk, and of soft tissue lesions become easier than before. A patient’s progress can be more closely monitored and the clinician can reduce the need for biopsies. A higher-end ultrasound unit will also aid in procedures such as radiofrequency ablation and needle biopsy by providing real-time, high-resolution imaging.

Training Is Available

Not only does Choice Medical offer convenient onsite training on the use of your unit when you purchase an ultrasound unit through us, but you can also sign up for our veterinary ultrasound classes. Our classes are sponsored by Samsung Ultrasound and provide veterinarians with RACE-approved CE credits for continuing education. All classes include hands-on instruction, recognizing artifacts, and learning the proper machine controls to create high-quality, diagnostic images.

Our Basic Ultrasound Class, in which attendees earn 14 CE credits, covers the five main abdominal organs and also how to assess trauma cases. The Basic class also offers instruction on how to recognize an ultrasound case, incorporate ultrasound into your veterinary practice, and how to create a study for interpretation. Instruction is also given on how to create diagnostic images, follow a scanning protocol, and do measurements.

Our Intermediate Ultrasound class, in which attendees earn 15 CE credits, is taught by a Board Certified Veterinary Radiologist. This class focuses on all abdominal organs, including the pancreas, as well as the adrenal glands and lymph nodes. Attendees receive instruction on consistent scanning technique and protocol as well as ultrasound-guided aspiration and biopsy. A variety of Samsung Ultrasound systems will be used for training.

If you have questions about incorporating ultrasound into your veterinary setting, be sure to contact us with any questions you may have. 

Price
$
Quantity:
Add To Quote
Angry cat blog image

“Cleanliness is next to keeping your ultrasound system running a long and happy life” Okay so that is not quite how the saying goes but, you get the gist. I would like to address something that is SO very important but, a lot of times, gets overlooked and that is keeping your system clean.  Given the environment that we work in with all the animal hair, dander, and dirt (not to mention human hair and dander) you can only imagine what that can do to a system.

The question then becomes how do you keep your ultrasound equipment clean?  First and foremost, locate the manual that came with your system and read about what it suggests as far as the particulars of housekeeping on your system.  If you do not have a manual look to the internet or the manufacturer for a copy. Be aware that warranties can be null and void if procedures are not followed as stated by the manufacturer as far as what type of cleaners and materials. Not to mention that some cleaners are caustic and can ruin your equipment.

 

The following list is the approved cleaners for Samsung Units:

  1. Sani-Cloth® bleach Germicidal Disposable Wipe Sodium Hypochlorite PDI Wipe
  2. T.Spray II Quaternary Ammonium (N-Alkyl) Pharmaceutical Innovations, Inc. Spray
  3. PROTEX® ULTRA DISINFECTANT WIPES Quaternary Ammonium (N-Alkyl) Parker Laboratory Inc. Wipe
  4. The Clorox Company Bleach Germicidal Wipes Sodium Hypochlorite Wipe

 

Sani-Cloth® bleach Germicidal Disposable Wipe Sodium Hypochlorite PDI Wipe T.Spray II Quaternary Ammonium Spray PROTEX® ULTRA DISINFECTANT WIPES Clorox Company Bleach Germicidal Wipes Clorox Wipes

 

In general the whole machine inside and out should be cleaned.  This includes the monitors, transducers and their cables, as well as the filter(s).  Wait…! What..?  The ultrasound machine has a filter? Yes, your ultrasound machine has a filter (some units may have more than 1) that should be cleaned at least once a week. A dirty clogged filter can result in heat build up and over time can cause damage to the hard drive and CPU board. Those components can cost thousands of dollars to replace. Take a look at your system and identify where the filter is located. You are going to have to get down on the floor to find it. Not all manufacturers put them in the same place so It could be along the bottom in the front, back, or on the sides of the unit.  Refer to your manufacturer on how to clean the filter on your system. For instance on the Samsung unit the filter can be removed and rinsed with water and once dried  put back into place. Other systems may have a filter that cannot be washed and only vacuumed or wiped clean.

Transducers should be cleaned after each examination with a gentle soap and water or quaternary ammonium (a low-level disinfectant) sprays or wipes (see approved list for Samsung).  Remember to clean the cables as well!! Gel and dirt have an amazing way of getting all over!!

How about that monitor?  You know that you put your gel-laden fingers on that monitor during your scan!  You are scanning and someone says “what is that?” and you inherently point to the lesion/organ on the screen.  Some systems have a monitor and a touchscreen and should be cleaned as you would your personal computer. That is, no cleaners should be sprayed directly  on the monitor or touch screen.  There are glass/computer cleaners that are ammonia free that can be used.  Spray a small amount of cleaner onto a microfiber or lint-free (like a Kim-Wipe) cloth and gently clean.

There is one other thing that can be cleaned on your system and it can seem a little bit daunting at first but, once you do it you will wonder why you thought it was so scary. That is cleaning the trackball. Dirt, hair, and gel can get under the trackball and make it stick and be sluggish.  Of course, check your manual or with your friendly service engineer/sales person if you want to clean it and are unsure.  On most systems the trackball sits in an assembly that kind of looks like a collar and if you turn that collar counterclockwise it will allow you to take the trackball out and clean the hair and dirt out of the recess that it sits in. Do not use any sharp implements in this area! Gently clean this area and trackball with a soft lint free cloth. Wipe the trackball and replace it into the recess with the assembly. Turn it clockwise to tighten it back down.

The inside of your system needs to be cleaned and checked out as well.  This should be done once every year or two.  Consult the company from whom you purchased your system from about getting this done by a service engineer. If your system is new or if you are buying a new system ask about a preventative maintenance visit during the warranty period.  You may want to inquire about a preventative maintenance contract for this service post warranty as well.

There are a couple of other things that I would like to mention that will help to keep your system running smoothly and lengthen its lifespan.  One of those things is the power supply.  Your system should be plugged into a backup power supply (UPS). This will protect it from any power surges or “dirty power” affecting the system’s hard-drive.  For those of us who live in Florida the woes of lightning strikes and electronic death is so real that it is imperative to have a backup power supply.  It is recommended not to not have any other electronic devices other than the ultrasound  plugged into this backup as it reduces your protection for your system. Along those lines, be aware of where the power cord is placed and keep it from being run over by the system when it gets moved around.  Repeated crushing of the power can cause the outer jacket and individual wire insulation to soften allowing the twisted copper strands to flatten and eventually the insulation will split thereby creating a potential short circuit and possible fire hazard.

Lastly, let’s talk about transducer safety.  Now all of you have been warned about dropping the transducer and have been frightened to the very brink of your lives about breaking it.  The reason why is that damage to any and all of the parts of the transducer can contribute to the overall performance.  The probe mainly consists of an acoustic lens, acoustic matching layer, piezoelectric element/crystals and backing material.

 

Ultrasound transducer components

Ultrasound transducer components

 

The other parts of the transducer are the connectors, cable, motor control and locking system.  Transducer damage can result in image quality issues. This may be due to a damaged lens, connector issues, crystal damage, or tears in the lens.  A noisy image can be a result of a broken cable or connector component (pins) damage or improper placement.  No image at all could be a result of probe cable – connector breakage, probe compatibility issue or software issue. Physical damage is a result of mishandling such a dropping or improper storage.

 

Tear in the lens

Tear in ultrasound lens

Broken connector

Broken connector ultrasound

Damaged cable

Damaged ultrasound cable

Damaged Connector Pins

Damaged Ultrasound Connector Pins

 

On most console systems there are transducer holders for the head and some sort of hook or handle device for the cable. Make sure that the cable is placed so as not to be run over or yanked when moving the system!  On portable systems loosely roll the cable as rolling up a garden hose and place on a safe surface out of the way of traffic.  Keep needles and biopsy instruments away from the lens during ultrasound guided procedures!! Once a transducer is damaged and showing artifacts it will have to be replaced.  As you can guess this is not a cheap component of your ultrasound system!!

Your ultrasound system is a precious commodity and let’s face it you spent a good deal of money to purchase it. The investment was well worth it of course, and keeping it clean and safe is a great way to protect that investment.  Properly educate staff and users on how the machine works and how to properly clean it and keep it in good condition!

Remember to keep it clean and Practice, Practice, Practice!!!!

Price
$
Quantity:
Add To Quote
dog and vet

The dictionary defines an artifact as “something observed in a scientific investigation or experiment that is not naturally present but occurs as a result of the preparative or investigative procedure.” In other words an artifact is something that shows up that you weren’t expecting and most times you don’t want it to be there.

We have been throwing sound around literally through our patient and watching the images as they come up on the screen to try to make some sense of it all. With all the different tissue densities, angles, electronics, and human element combined there is bound to be something that doesn’t translate or produces some artifact within the image. Let’s face it ultrasound is not perfect due to all these factors.

Let’s talk about artifacts.

 

Distal Acoustic Enhancement –  when you are scanning the liver and you come across the gallbladder have you noticed the tissue below it appears more hyperechoic (whiter) This is acoustic enhancement and it happens because the increased echoes deep to structures that transmit sound exceptionally well. This is an artifact that happens with fluid filled structures such as cysts, the urinary bladder and the gallbladder. The fluid attenuates the sound less than the surrounding tissue. Typically it is seen as more hyperechoic (whiter) posterior to the cystic area; this artifact helps with the identification of fluid filled structures.

Example of Distal Acoustic Enhancement

 

Acoustic Shadowing – This phenomenon is characterized by a signal void behind structures that strongly absorb or reflect the sound waves.  It appears as if the echo is actually stopped behind the structure and appears as a hypoechoic (dark) area. This happens most frequently with solid structures such as bones or stones (mineral).

Example of Acoustic Shadowing

 

Comet Tail Artifact – The comet-tail artifact is seen when small calcific / crystalline / highly reflective objects such as  gas bubbles in the intestinal loop, metallic pellets, surgical clips or a biopsy needle which are within the sound resulting in many echoes that return to the probe at irregular intervals, making a trail of closely spaced, discrete, very bright, small echoes, resembling a comet’s tail.

Example of Comet Tail Artifact

 

Mirror Image Artifact – This happens where a highly reflective surface such as the diaphragm is in the path of the sound wave. The primary beam reflects from such a surface (such as the diaphragm) but instead of directly being received by the transducer, it encounters another structure (e.g. a nodular lesion) in its path and is reflected back to the highly reflective surface (e.g. diaphragm). It then again reflects back towards the transducer. The ultrasound machine makes a false assumption that the returning echo has been reflected once and hence the delayed echoes are judged as if being returned from a deeper structure, thus giving a mirror artifact on the other side of the reflective surface. Some examples of mirror artifact:

  1. reflection of a liver lesion into the thorax (the commonest example)
  2. reflection of abdominal ascites mimicking pleural effusion
  3. duplication of gestational sac (either ghost twin or heterotopic pregnancy)
  4. duplication of the uterus

To avoid this artifact, change the position and angle of scanning to change the angle of insonation of the primary ultrasound beam.

Example of Mirror Artifact

 

 

Reverberation Artifact -Reverberation artifacts appear as a series of equally spaced lines. They are produced by an ultrasound beam repeatedly bouncing back and forth between two highly reflective interfaces or between the transducer and a strong reflector. They can obscure deeper structures but can also be useful when detected in unexpected locations. Reverberation artifacts can be improved by changing the angle of insonation so that reverberation between strong parallel reflectors cannot occur.

Example of Reverberation Artifact

 

Refraction Artifact – occurs when the ultrasound waves are deflected from their original path by passing close to a large, curved, smooth-walled structure.Some surfaces that are smooth and round shaped will deflect the sound beams. The sound that is sent out will get no echo coming back to them so the absence of echo sound waves will make a shadow-like image that seems to project from the edges of the curved structure, also called edge artifact. Refraction causes hypoechoic areas on the screen. This artifact can be mistaken for effusion or a fluid pocket.

Example of Refraction Artifact

 

 

Side-lobe Artifact – The result of this artifact is that  anatomy outside of the transducer’s beam appears within the main beam. Secondary (side) lobes are present for electronic transducers with varying degrees of suppression and are the same frequency as the primary ultrasound beam. The transducer/system assumes that the echo coming back is only within the main axis of the beam. The reflection is at the correct depth but in the wrong laterality.

Example of Side-Lobe

 

Contact Artifact – Because sound waves do not travel through the air very well coupling gel is used to create a layer between the transducer and the skin to help with transmission. Thus when there is not enough gel/alcohol you get loss of contact which causes an extreme hypoechoic area.

Example of Loss of Contact

 

Artifacts in Ultrasound occur because the system makes the following assumptions:

  1. Sound travels in a straight line
  2. Sound travels directly to the reflector (surface of the tissue) and back and leaves no room for multipath artifacts
  3. The US machine assumes an average speed of 1540 m/sec in its calculation for distance of a returning US wave.
  4. Reflections arise only from structures within the beam’s main axis; it assumes there are no secondary lobes, and that a side lobe artifact is not possible.
  5. The image plane is very thin
  6. The strength of the reflection is directly related to the characteristics of the tissue creating the reflection. Remember that we are imaging differences in acoustic impedance, not anatomy, histology, or even pathology. It so happens that most pathologic conditions in the abdomen correspond with differences in acoustic impedance, but there will be US misses. Therefore, a negative scan does not always rule out disease.

 

Artifacts occur in all US images.  You just have to know what causes and recognize them for what they are and not misdiagnose changes in the image as being abnormal when it is merely artifactual. For the most part, moving the transducer or ensuring adequate skin contact will avoid most artifacts. Useful artifacts should be recognized for their potential to provide additional physical information about the tissues being imaged.

Price
$
Quantity:
Add To Quote
cat

At Choice Medical, we are the sole national distributor for Samsung’s Veterinary Ultrasound Systems and have provided veterinary services, large and small, with our extensive knowledge of these systems since 1991. We are here to help you find the perfect fit for your practice and are ready to work with you consultatively.

We understand that your busy practice may be looking for ways to improve workflow while providing the best possible care for your four-legged patients. Improving workflow will allow you to spend more quality time with your patients, improve patient outcomes, avoid errors, and avoid burnout.

Every veterinary practice is unique with differing patient needs and budgets. We at Choice Medical understand, and we have compiled a list of the best Samsung Veterinary Ultrasound Systems that can help your practice enhance patient care and work more efficiently. We also provide training for each of these units.

The Samsung RS80A with Prestige has a special emphasis on workflow and convenience.

With its folding monitor, swivel lock, and tilting touch screen, the Samsung RS80A is ideal for aiding workflow and creating a smooth and flexible experience during a variety of scanning procedures. Its console features a simplified design that streamlines the interaction of its systems. Its 6-way control panel is adjustable, allowing the clinician to avoid repetitive physical stress while working. The control panel can be returned to its home position when off, improving mobility.

A 23-inch LED display offers high resolution and clarity, making it versatile in any light level. Image quality is enhanced by the Samsung Crystal Architecture, S-vue transducers, and unique beamformer technology saving valuable time diagnosing difficult patients.

The Samsung HS70A with Prime is another great unit for improving workflow.

The Samsung HS70A with Prime is silent as it operates, allowing physical exams at the same time. Its mobile design makes it easy to move in a variety of situations and its adjustable console can be moved in all four directions. Clinicians can customize its U and P keys to adjust workflow to their unique needs. A touch screen offers efficient use of the ultrasound system.

A large 23-inch LED display provides high-level image contrast and several advanced measurement tools help provide a quick and efficient diagnosis of abdominal lesions.

The Samsung HS40 is an affordable choice and easy to learn.

With its friendly interface, the HS40 is easy to learn, which reduces the time needed for training. When space is needed, its compact design is a must. Thanks to its low noise level, physical exams can be performed at the same time the unit is running. Its soft typing keyboard allows for quick use of the unit.

The Samsung HS40 offers a fully customizable annotation menu which greatly improves workflow. EZ Exam allows the clinician to create and use predefined protocols which creates a quicker, streamlined process.

The Samsung HS60 Ultrasound Unit is also affordable and versatile.

Thanks to Samsung HS60’s gas lift, this system, plus its monitor arm, can be adjusted easily to a clinician’s desired height without the time and effort needed to do so manually. The HS60’s 21.5″ LCD monitor can be used in any lighting condition, and its low noise level allows physical exams to be performed while the unit is in use, including auscultation.

Measure navigation improves the accuracy of measurements while EZ Exam merges several ultrasound investigation steps into a single process, allowing users to create a fast, convenient way to diagnose patient conditions.

The Samsung HM70A With Plus is fast and reliable.

This unit can be turned on quickly, powering on from an off state in only one minute and from a sleep state in just 14 seconds, reducing the wait needed to use the unit. Its battery allows the Samsung HM70 With Plus to run for 3.5 hours, allowing its use in a variety of conditions. A clinician can perform physical exams while the unit is running thanks to its low noise level, and its sensitive 15-inch touchscreen allows for easy and efficient interaction while an exam is taking place.

The EZ exam feature reduces repetition by streamlining several steps with the use of a single button, while the ergonomic keyboard makes annotations a breeze. Elastoscan can detect solid masses in tissue, reducing the need for further palpation.

Contact us at Choice Medical to get a quote today and take the first step towards streamlining your practice. We are here to give you one-on-one attention and help you choose the right ultrasound unit for your unique practice.

Price
$
Quantity:
Add To Quote