Abstract: An ultrasonically actuated medical implement is used in improving medical interventions and in certain instances to the generation of image data, in particular data acquired during a medical intervention or procedure. The medical implement employs a piezoelectric element which causes reciprocation between first and second mass assemblies in order to ultrasonically actuate a probe member and improve the visibility of the probe member to imaging methods. The invention also concerns the visibility of structures in target regions to be imaged and how this may be enhanced using the medical implement of the invention.

Abstract: The invention relates to improving medical interventions and in certain instances to the generation of image data, in particular data acquired during a medical intervention or procedure. The invention also concerns the visibility of structures in target regions to be imaged and how this may be enhanced.

Abstract: An ultrasound probe (10) comprises a pair of one dimensional transducer modules (1, 2) arranged in-line but set apart from each other in a shallow “V” shape. This allows a wide gap for needle manipulation while maintaining the ability to compute a good acoustic image of the target area (4) on an ultrasound scan engine. The ultrasound image is a product of data from both the arrays. The probe (10) is shaped to allow ergonomic manipulation possibilities for the anaesthetist. The probe can be held in a ‘pencil-type’ grip anywhere on the main body, or by pushing directly on the back of arrays. The shape of the probe, means it sits in position better on a patient than a conventional probe.

Abstract: Improved coupling apparatus (10) for coupling an ultrasound probe (24) to an object (26) is described. The apparatus (10) is particularly suitable for use within medical devices. The coupling apparatus (10) comprising first (14) and second (18) deformable coupler located on separate sides of an intermediate layer (16). Employing the first coupler (14) allows the apparatus (10) to be coupled to the probe (24) while the second coupler (18) provides a means for coupling the apparatus (10) to the object (26). The intermediate layer (16) acoustically connects the first (14) and second couplers (18) while providing structural strength for the apparatus (10). Optionally a sheath or cover (157) may be incorporated within the coupling apparatus (141) so as to improve the hygiene and sterile nature of the device.

Abstract: An ultrasound probe for locating with respect to a surface of a target object. The ultrasound probe has a face suitable for receiving the palm of a hand of a user, allowing the user to accurately move, hold and/or grip the ultrasound probe using their hand. At least a portion of the face comprises an elastically deformable material.

Abstract: An ultrasound waveguide that is attachable to an ultrasound probe so as to identify a target area on a target object. The ultrasound waveguide has an ultrasound transducer coupling signal to be transmitted through a guide means. The ultrasound waveguide also has a positioning means for positioning the guide means in relation to the target area on the target object. The guide means is provided with a channel that provides a discontinuity within the guide means that causes a discontinuity in the ultrasound signal emitted by the probe. The presence of this discontinuity allow for proper alignment of the ultrasound waveguide with the target object.