Ultrasound Imaging

ULTRASOUND IMAGING BUYER'S GUIDE

Ultrasound imaging, also known as sonography, is a generally safe imaging method used to produce real-time images of structures inside the body. It has many uses including examining lumps and other soft tissues, monitoring a baby’s health during pregnancy, evaluating blood flow, and guiding a needle for biopsy or treatments. With high-definition ultrasound images, doctors can evaluate, diagnose, and treat medical conditions more effectively. Tiger Medical provides a diverse line of Ultrasound Imaging Machines that can fit any budget and needs.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT ULTRASOUND IMAGING SYSTEM FOR YOUR PRACTICE

Whether to replace a malfunctioning Ultrasound Machine or equip a new facility, it’s crucial to know the factors to consider when buying a new Ultrasound Imaging Machine for sale. 

Applications and Imaging Mode

The imaging mode needed depends on how it’s going to be used. Below is a table we prepared to show how imaging modes differ and their ideal applications:

Imaging Mode	Example	Definition	Application
A-mode		This is the most basic type of imaging.  it provides one-dimensional information in the form of a waveform with spikes or peaks at the interface of two different tissues.	Measures thickness of tissues; identification of lesions, cysts, and tumors
B-mode		Also called 2D mode, B-mode ultrasound produces a cross-sectional 2D image representing internal tissues and organ boundaries. B-mode images are constructed from echoes that are generated by the reflection of ultrasound waves at tissue boundaries.	Measures thickness of tissues; identification lesions, cysts, and tumors; image-guided needle placement and injections; locating structural abnormalities
M-mode (Motion Mode)		M-mode produces what can be likened to a video ultrasound either in 1D (A-mode) or 2D (B-mode) imaging.	Used in obstetrics, gynecology, and other disciplines
Color Doppler Imaging		Visualizes blood flow, its direction, and vascularization.	Often used in cardiology to evaluate heart health and diagnose heart conditions.
3D/4D		3D/4D provides a 3D image of organs or structures. The difference is 3D provides still 3D images while 4D ultrasounds provide a moving or live 3D video view.	Often used in detecting pregnancy and observing fetus development and movement

Quality of Image

The quality of the ultrasound images is a major factor since this will directly impact the soundness of medical diagnoses and treatments. Advanced Ultrasound Imaging Machines use various techniques to enhance the contrast and clarity of images. One of the most advanced ultrasound machines today, the GE Vivid E95 Ultra 4D Cardiovascular Ultrasound uses FlexiLight, a sophisticated rendering technique that uses its own light source to illuminate structures for a clearer 4D ultrasound view. 

Size and Weight 

Emergency care and point-of-care services greatly benefit from compact ultrasound machines. If portability is a priority, it’s best to purchase a compact and lightweight Ultrasound Machine like the GE Vscan Extend R2 Dual Probe Ultrasound Scanner. This is a handheld ultrasound system that’s as compact and almost as lightweight as a smartphone.

Screen Size

The size of the screen has a direct impact on the ease of viewing the ultrasound images. Some Ultrasound Systems have as large as 15” LCD screens.

Transducers 

Transducers or probes are a major consideration when purchasing an Ultrasound Imaging Machine. There are 4 main types of transducers: linear probes, convex probes, phased array probes, and endocavitary probes. 

Each of these types is used for specific purposes. The convex probe, for example, is used to get a wider field of view and is useful for transabdominal imaging in obstetrics, gynecology, and urology. There are also 3D and 4D transducers that only advanced Ultrasound Machines can integrate with. Manufacturers provide a list of compatible transducers for each model, with notes on the ideal applications of each transducer. Transducers are sold separately, giving you the flexibility to buy only what you need. 

Ultrasound Scan vs. MRI

Both ultrasound and MRI are imaging diagnostic tools that allow medical professionals to look inside the body. Unlike ultrasounds which use high-frequency sound waves to produce images, the MRI Machine sends magnetic waves into the patient’s body, which causes the atoms in the magnetic field to send signals to a computer. The computer then uses an advanced mathematical formula to convert the signal to an image. 

When should an ultrasound or MRI be used?

Ultrasounds are best used to detect issues in relatively small areas of tendons, ligaments, lumps, and other soft tissue. It can also provide a live video view, making it great for observing a fetus, observing the impact of movement on damages, and needle guidance during biopsies or treatments. 

While highly effective in showing soft tissues, ultrasounds can’t show actual structures. Bones and oxygen also don’t show that well. This makes the MRI better suited for scanning larger areas of bones, muscles, joints, or cartilage. 

Buy the Best Ultrasound Imagine Machine

Ultrasound Imaging Machines are powerful diagnostic tools, helping ultrasound imaging centers and hospitals save millions of lives each year. This is why we at Tiger Medical are committed to providing you with reliable high-quality Ultrasound Machines from top brands like Edan and GE Healthcare at the best price. Whether you’re looking for a portable or full-sized Ultrasound Machine with different kinds of transducers/probes, you can count on our expertise and customer service to help you find the best Ultrasound Imaging Machine for your needs.