Abstract: In one embodiment, a needle guide is attached to the end of an ultrasonic probe in a manner such that the needle will follow a known trajectory under control of the needle guide. The surgeon then positions the needle guide by looking at the ultrasound image formed from the ultrasound radiated from the probe. In one embodiment, the needle guide has a release mechanism that allows the needle (or other medical device) that had been positioned in the guide to remain in the patient when the probe is removed. In one embodiment, the needle guide is designed to be releasably mounted to a bracket which, in turn, is releasably mounted to the end of the probe.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a needle guide is attached to the end of an ultrasonic probe in a manner such that the needle will follow a known trajectory under control of the needle guide. The surgeon then positions the needle guide by looking at the ultrasound image formed from the ultrasound radiated from the probe. In one embodiment, the needle guide has a release mechanism that allows the needle (or other medical device) that had been positioned in the guide to remain in the patient when the probe is removed. In one embodiment, the needle guide is designed to be releasably mounted to a bracket which, in turn, is releasably mounted to the end of the probe.

Abstract: Systems and methods are shown which provide feedback with respect to the desired or proper placement of a medical device guide without introducing protuberances or other perturbations to the surface of devices used in medical procedures. Embodiments provide a biopsy needle guide bracket for use with an ultrasound transducer assembly, wherein the biopsy needle guide bracket and ultrasound transducer assembly are adapted to detect when the biopsy needle guide bracket is properly located on the ultrasound transducer assembly using one or more sensors. Embodiments may implement various sensor technology, such as Hall effect sensors, optical sensors, capacitive coupled sensors, inductive coupled sensors, and/or the like to provide feedback with respect to placement of a medical device guide.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a needle guide is attached to the end of an ultrasonic probe in a manner such that the needle will follow a known trajectory under control of the needle guide. The surgeon then positions the needle guide by looking at the ultrasound image formed from the ultrasound radiated from the probe. In one embodiment, the needle guide has a release mechanism that allows the needle (or other medical device) that had been positioned in the guide to remain in the patient when the probe is removed. In one embodiment, the needle guide is designed to be releasably mounted to a bracket which, in turn, is releasably mounted to the end of the probe.

Abstract: A carrying case is dimensioned to present a lightweight ultrasound device and one or more accessory products in an organized fashion, to a physician to reduce set up time for diagnostic examinations. The carrying case having a handle and at least one fastener for securing the carrying case in a closed configuration. The carry case comprising at least one instrument panel, the instrument panel having a top side edge and a bottom edge, and having a plurality of harnesses for the secure positioning of a lightweight ultrasound device, a data recording device and at least one transducer, the instrument panel being substantially inflexible, a first accessory panel being flexibly connected to the top edge of the instrument panel such that the first accessory panel may be folded over the instrument panel.

Abstract: A carrying case is dimensioned to present a lightweight ultrasound device and one or more accessory products in an organized fashion, to a physician to reduce set up time for diagnostic examinations. The carrying case having a handle and at least one fastener for securing the carrying case in a closed configuration. The carry case comprising at least one instrument panel, the instrument panel having a top side edge and a bottom edge, and having a plurality of harnesses for the secure positioning of a lightweight ultrasound device, a data recording device and at least one transducer, the instrument panel being substantially inflexible, a first accessory panel being flexibly connected to the top edge of the instrument panel such that the first accessory panel may be folded over the instrument panel.

Abstract: Disclosed is a mobile ultrasound diagnostic instrument including a self-powered ultrasound console having electronics for driving a transducer array and processing reflected ultrasound waves, and a visual display for processed ultrasound waves. A docking stand is provided for the console and includes a sleeve for slidably receiving the console of the instrument, the sleeve being configured to expose the visual display and manual controls of the console. A vertical support positions the sleeve in a raised position above the base, which preferably includes wheels for moving the docking stand and diagnostic instrument during use. The sleeve preferably includes a signal connector for mating with a connector of the console and receiving video signals for auxiliary display. A power connector can be provided for mating with a power connector of the console for operating the console and for charging batteries in the console.

Abstract: A mobile ultrasound diagnostic instrument including a self-powered ultrasound console having electronics for driving a transducer array and processing reflected ultrasound waves, and a visual display for processed ultrasound waves. A docking stand is provided for the console and includes a sleeve for slidably receiving the console of the instrument, the sleeve being configured to expose the visual display and manual controls of the console. A vertical support positions the sleeve in a raised position above the base, which preferably includes wheels for moving the docking stand and diagnostic instrument during use. The sleeve preferably includes a signal connector for mating with a connector of the console and receiving video signals for auxiliary display. A power connector can be provided for mating with a power connector of the console for operating the console and for charging batteries in the console.

Abstract: Disclosed is a transducer connector which overcomes limitations in the prior art by allowing significant reduction in connector size and weight. Key attributes of this invention are electrical contacts incorporated onto a printed circuit board, a folding latch assembly, and the use of lightweight, rigid materials for fabrication. Additionally, the mating half of the connector may be mounted directly on a printed circuit board implementing circuitry for a diagnostic ultrasound instrument, thus saving weight, volume, and complexity.

Abstract: A hand held ultrasonic imaging device is provided as an integral unit with all components and circuitry necessary for both image acquisition and image display included in a single enclosure. Usually, the device will also include an on-board battery so that it can be used without any power cords or other cables. Preferably, the device is provided as part of a system including a recharging base unit having a receptacle for removably receiving and storing the hand held device.

Abstract: A latching system for a battery pack of a hand-held, portable electronic device. A primary latch on the front panel of the battery pack releasably engages a retaining shoulder portion within a battery housing to removably secure the battery pack in a fully installed, electrically connected position within the electronic device. Secondary latches are connected to the left and right side panels of the battery pack at a position away from the primary latch. Each secondary latch is adapted to releasably engage a secondary retaining shoulder within the housing to retain the battery pack in a partially removed position. Elongated electrical contacts are connected to the battery pack and provide electrical contact between the battery pack and the electronic as battery pack is moved from the installed position to the partially removed position. A switch coupled to the battery pack detects movement of the battery pack from the installed position.

Abstract: A cup-shaped protective boot of a resilient material covers a portion of a battery pack which protrudes out of an interior chamber of a handle of a portable, battery-powered, hand-held device. The handle releasably receives the battery pack, and the protective boot forms an environmental seal for the end of the handle to inhibit the entry of contaminants into the handle. The protective boot forms an extended gripping surface for the handle and provides protection against impact shock.