Ultrasound scanner: a technique that makes hidden things obvious. What you need to know about such devices

Ultrasound scanner, also known as an ultrasound machine (ultrasound), is a medical device that uses ultrasound waves to create images of the internal organs and tissues of the human body. Ultrasound technology is based on the principle of echolocation, similar to how radar or sonar works.

Here’s how it works:

• An ultrasound wave source called a transducer emits high-frequency ultrasound waves into the patient’s body through a gel that helps improve contact between the skin and the transducer.
• Ultrasound waves travel through different tissues within the body. When they encounter an interface between tissues of different densities or structures (for example, between muscles and organs or between blood and vessel walls), they are reflected back to the transducer.
• The transducer registers the reflected ultrasonic waves and transmits the information to a computer, which processes the data and creates an image in real time.

Ultrasound is used medically for a variety of purposes, including:

• Diagnosis: Ultrasound allows doctors to visualize internal organs such as the heart, liver, kidneys, gallbladder, uterus, ovaries and others. This helps to identify various diseases and conditions such as tumors, cysts, inflammation, etc.
• pregnancy monitoring: Ultrasound is widely used to monitor the development of the fetus inside the uterus and determine its sex, size and general condition.
• Procedure Management: Ultrasound can be used during procedures such as biopsies, fluid aspirations, injections and others to ensure accuracy and control.
• surgical guidance: Physicians can use ultrasound to navigate and visualize internal structures during surgery.
• assessment of the condition of the heart and blood vessels: Ultrasound of the heart (echocardiography) allows you to evaluate the function of the heart and blood vessels.

Ultrasound diagnostics has many advantages, such as the absence of ionizing radiation, painlessness and the absence of the need for intravenous contrast agent (in some cases). It is widely used in medicine and helps doctors to accurately diagnose and monitor the condition of patients.

1. Ultrasound scanners by application:
   • Abdominal scanners: Used to look at organs in the abdomen, such as the liver, spleen, kidneys, and gallbladder.
   • Gynecological scanners: Designed to examine the organs of the female reproductive system, including the uterus and ovaries.
   • Operating Room (Surgical) Scanners: Used during surgical procedures to navigate and visualize organs and structures within the body.
   • Cardiac (heart) scanners: Used to study the structure and function of the heart and blood vessels.
   • Mammography scanners: Used to examine the breasts to detect breast cancer.
   • Ultrasound of the intracranial space: Used to study the brain and brain.
2. Ultrasound scanners by image type:
   • 2D (two-dimensional) scanners: Create images that are black and white sections of organs and tissues.
   • 3D (three-dimensional) scanners: Allow you to create three-dimensional three-dimensional images of internal structures.
   • 4D (four-dimensional) scanners: Similar to 3D, but also provide motion information, for example to image the dynamics of the heart valves or the movement of the fetus inside the uterus.
   • Doppler scanners: Used to evaluate the speed and direction of blood flow in the vessels and heart.
3. Ultrasound scanners by design:
   • Portable scanners: Compact devices that can be easily moved, making them convenient for use outside of a stationary setting.
   • Stationary scanners: Larger, more powerful devices typically used in hospitals and clinics.
4. Ultrasound scanners by functionality:
   • Ultrasound scanners with advanced functions such as elastography (assessment of tissue elasticity), confocal microscopy (for high-resolution images) and others.

Each type of ultrasound scanner has its own unique benefits and applications, and the choice depends on the specific needs and objectives of the medical practice.

• GE Healthcare: is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of medical equipment, including ultrasound scanners.
• Philips Healthcare: Also offers a wide range of ultrasound scanners for various medical fields.
• Siemens Healthineers: produces ultrasound machines for clinical diagnostics and interventions.
• Toshiba (now Canon Medical Systems): provides ultrasound systems with various functionalities.
• Hitachi Healthcare: Offers ultrasound systems for various medical fields.
• Mindray: is a more affordable ultrasound machine manufacturer offering a wide range of products.
• Samsung: Also provides ultrasound scanners with various functionalities.
• Fujifilm SonoSite: specializes in portable ultrasound scanners for a variety of clinical scenarios.
• Esaote: manufactures ultrasound systems, including portable and stationary models.
• Chison: Offers affordable ultrasound scanners.

Regarding certification, in Russia ultrasound equipment must also meet medical standards and be certified for use in medical institutions. It is important to make sure that the selected ultrasound scanner meets all Russian requirements and has the necessary certificates and permits for operation. This will help ensure patient safety and the quality of diagnostic tests. Work with reputable suppliers and consult with regulatory authorities regarding certification and licensing issues.

Ultrasound scanner — purchase

Purchasing an ultrasound scanner (ultrasound machine) for a medical clinic or institution requires certain steps and consideration of various factors. Here is a general process to consider when purchasing such specialized equipment: