Abstract: A coupling guide is provided for controlling the shape and size of a condom covered medical diagnostic ultrasound probe. The coupling guide maintains a constant distance between the transducer of the probe and the surface being examined by controlling the shape and size of the condom as it is inflated with a fluid. The coupling guide of the present invention can also be used to keep an organ stabile while the organ is being scanned and minimizes discomfort to the patient.

Abstract: A coupling guide is provided for controlling the shape and size of a condom covered medical diagnostic ultrasound probe. The coupling guide maintains a constant distance between the transducer of the probe and the surface being examined by controlling the shape and size of the condom as it is inflated with a fluid. The coupling guide of the present invention can also be used to keep an organ stabile while the organ is being scanned and minimizes discomfort to the patient.

Abstract: A needle guide is provided for quick, easy, and consistent insertion of a needle, such as a biopsy needle, into the scan plane of an ultrasonic diagnostic imaging system probe at multiple angles. The needle guide of the present invention is preferably a one piece needle guide that provides the user with the ability to maneuver a needle into and within the tissue of a body being examined at various angles. The ability to maneuver a needle at multiple angles is obtained by insertion of a needle into a slot created within the body of the needle guide. The needle guide is configured to attach to a probe such that the needle will always be inserted into the scan plane of the probe regardless of the selected angle.

Abstract: An ultrasonic transducer probe that provides a connector for quickly, easily, and reliably connecting and disconnecting the transducer electrical connections in such a manner that the connection is removable. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the connector provides means for receiving one end of a flex circuit that is attached at its other end to a multi-element transducer located at the distal end of a probe. The flex circuit is oriented and aligned in the connector with a separate flex circuit in such a manner that compression of the connector sections creates an electrical connection between the flex circuits. Since the connector is solderless, the flex circuits may be removed and replaced without damage to the flex circuits or flex circuit conductors.

Abstract: Ultrasonic diagnostic scanheads are described which include a lighting mechanism located at the transducer end of the scanhead. The scanhead includes an integral light which is illuminated when the scanhead is connected to an imaging system. The light is color-coded in a manner which clearly identifies a particular characteristic of the scanhead such as frequency of operation. In the preferred embodiment the integral light is located in a position on the scanhead which also informs the user of the orientation of the image plane in relation to the scanhead. In accordance with a further aspect of the present invention, the light of a selected scanhead is modulated by the imaging system when the clinician selects the scanhead for use.