Abstract: A hand-held ultrasonic imaging apparatus having an integrated display and transducer. The transducer and display are relatively configured so that an operator may look directly down at the patient and, at the same time visualize images of the patient's internal body structures on the display. The apparatus may be used to facilitate placement and insertion of a needle or catheter into a patient. Images displayed on the screen (e.g., the tip of the needle or catheter and an intended internal target body structure) and the actual needle or catheter itself may be maintained within the same visual axis of the operator, thereby avoiding any need to look away from the needle or catheter in order to visualize images on the display. The apparatus may also include an integrated transducer control and signal processing circuit, which together with the integrated display and transducer, provide a complete integrated ultrasonic imaging solution.