Abstract: Ultrasonic transducer probe housing including an upper portion defining a substantially spherical outer surface gripable by a probe operator and a lower portion defining a bottom of the housing and a cable exit opening through which a cable passes. The cable exit opening is positioned between the bottom and the upper portion of the housing. A cable conduit extends from the cable exit opening to lead the cable out of the housing at an angle of about 0° to about 30° relative to a horizontal plane of the housing perpendicular to a central, vertical axis thereof. Positioning the cable exit opening below the portion of the housing gripped by the operator, in combination with the orientation of the cable conduit at an angle to the horizontal plane of the housing, minimizes the effective weight/torque which arises during operative movement of the housing.

Abstract: Intraoperative ultrasound probes are described having contoured side surfaces which enable the probe to be held between the fingers of a surgeon during a surgical ultrasound procedure. The probes advantageously permit the surgeon to conduct a tactile examination of organs of a patient with the hand and fingertips while holding the probe.