Abstract: Ultrasound-based systems are described for use in guiding subdermal probes during medical procedures. The systems include an ultrasound system in conjunction with a probe detection system. The probe detection system can be used to generate a virtual image of a probe in a subdermal environment such that the virtual image is highly correlated with the actual probe location in the subdermal environment. The probe used in the system can include a tag that can provide information concerning the probe characteristics to the probe detection system.

Abstract: Ultrasound-based systems are described for use in guiding subdermal probes during medical procedures. The systems include an ultrasound system in conjunction with a probe detection system. The probe detection system can be used to generate a virtual image of a probe in a subdermal environment such that the virtual image is highly correlated with the actual probe location in the subdermal environment. The probe used in the system can include a tag that can provide information concerning the probe characteristics to the probe detection system.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to improved devices and methods for use in ultrasound guiding of percutaneous probes during medical procedures. The ultrasound devices of the present invention include an ultrasound transducer housing having a passage therethrough configured to accommodate a probe. The devices can be utilized to guide a probe through the probe guide in the passage of the transducer housing, and along a path extending from the ultrasound transducer housing to a target at a known angular relationship to the ultrasound transducer. In this manner, the path of the advancing probe and hence the location of the probe tip can be more clearly known in relation to a target imaged by the ultrasound device. In addition, the devices can include a sterile sleeve including a sterile probe guide such that the transducer housing itself, including the integral probe guide opening, can be separated from the patient by a sterile barrier.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to improved devices and methods for use in ultrasound guiding of percutaneous probes during medical procedures. The ultrasound devices of the present invention include an ultrasound transducer housing having a passage therethrough configured to accommodate a probe. The devices can be utilized to guide a probe through the probe guide in the passage of the transducer housing, and along a path extending from the ultrasound transducer housing to a target at a known angular relationship to the ultrasound transducer. In this manner, the path of the advancing probe and hence the location of the probe tip can be more clearly known in relation to a target imaged by the ultrasound device. In addition, the devices can include a sterile sleeve including a sterile probe guide such that the transducer housing itself, including the integral probe guide opening, can be separated from the patient by a sterile barrier.