Abstract: An acoustic coupler for use with an ultrasound probe by a surgeon as a diagnostic tool is described. The present invention provides an acoustic coupler for use with an ultrasound probe for imaging an anatomical structure, comprising a member that is capable of being sterilized, is acoustically neutral, and is in vivo biocompatible, and comprises: (a) a first surface adapted to receive and fix the position of an ultrasound probe head relative to the member, to ensure the correct orientation of the probe head in relation to the anatomical structure during imaging; and (b) a second surface opposed to the first surface, the second surface being shaped to substantially conform to the contour of the anatomical structure. Also described is a method for producing ultrasonic images of an anatomical structure with an acoustic coupler and an ultrasound probe.

Abstract: A hand held imaging probe for use by a surgeon as a diagnostic tool is described. The probe is held and operated in one hand by the surgeon independent of any other operator. The probe incorporates either finger button switches or a thumb wheel rocker switch to adjust a variety of parameters associated with visual images generated from the ultrasonic probe. Also described is a method for producing ultrasonic images by a single operator through a hand held and operated ultrasonic probe. Alternative embodiments which incorporate an aspirator and offset device are also described.