Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus includes plural ultrasonic transducers, a catheter signal detection unit and a position detection unit. The plural ultrasonic transducers are arrayed two-dimensionally for transmitting and receiving ultrasonic waves to and from an object. The catheter signal detection unit is configured to acquire a reception signal of a frequency modulated continuous wave from reception signals from at least three of the plural ultrasonic transducers. The frequency modulated continuous wave is transmitted from a catheter inserted in the object. The position detection unit is configured to detect a position of the catheter based on the acquired reception signal of the frequency modulated continuous wave.

Abstract: An ultrasonic diagnostic apparatus has an ultrasonic probe for transmitting and receiving an ultrasonic wave at a group of a plurality of ultrasonic vibrators arranged in an array form to and from a subject and incorporating a preamplifier groups for amplifying the resulting weak ultrasonic echo received after obtaining tissue information about the subject. The ultrasonic vibrator group has a first area to which a first amplifier group is to be connected and a second preamplifier group to which a second amplifier group is to be connected. In an operating mode to cease the first preamplifier group from operating, a control circuit switches to supply the bias current being supplied to the first preamplifier group over to the second preamplifier group.