Abstract: An ultrasound probe is provided for imaging and diagnosing areas of interest that are in immediate contact with the probe. The probe provides an integrated standoff comprised of a rubber material having optimal acoustic characteristics. The lens is directly applied to the transducer and the standoff is applied to the lens such that the focal zone is placed at the area immediately below the patient contact surface of the probe. The lens material also encapsulates the transducer and provides reliable protection against electrical shock. The standoff is also separated from the surface being examined by a cap comprised of a biocompatible elastomer having high chemical and abrasive resistance that enables the probe to be easily sterilized and disinfected and provides further protection against electrical shock. The use of a standoff with optimal acoustic properties in, combination with the arrangement of the lens, standoff and cap provides a probe with a focal zone placed at the area immediately below the probe.

Abstract: A needle guide is provided for quick, easy, and consistent insertion of a needle, such as a biopsy needle, into the scan plane of an ultrasonic diagnostic imaging system probe at multiple angles. The needle guide of the present invention is preferably a one piece needle guide that provides the user with the ability to maneuver a needle into and within the tissue of a body being examined at various angles. The ability to maneuver a needle at multiple angles is obtained by insertion of a needle into a slot created within the body of the needle guide. The needle guide is configured to attach to a probe such that the needle will always be inserted into the scan plane of the probe regardless of the selected angle.

Abstract: An ultrasonic probe enclosure is provided that has a liquid tight seal for sealing an ultrasonic probe connector and a portion of an ultrasonic probe cable. The enclosure of the present invention provides liquid tight sealing in a simple and reliable manner such that the connector may be completely submersed in a sterilization liquid without causing damage to the sensitive components of the connector.