Veterinary Ultrasound

Advances in Veterinary Ultrasound Technology

Veterinary ultrasound technology has seen significant advancements in recent years. Some of the notable software additions include:

• Beam Steering Technology: Electronically adjust the direction of the ultrasound beam. It enhances image quality by optimizing the angle of sound waves, improving visualization of deep tissues and organs.

• 3D/4D Imaging: Software advancements have enabled the integration of three-dimensional (3D) and four-dimensional (4D) imaging capabilities in veterinary ultrasound, enhancing a vet’s ability to assess complex anatomical structures.

• Speckle Reduction Imaging: Reduces the speckled appearance of ultrasound images, improving overall image clarity and contrast and enhancing the visualization of fine anatomical details and subtle abnormalities.

• Advanced Measurement and Analysis Tools: Modern veterinary ultrasound software includes sophisticated measurement and analysis tools. These tools automate measurements, quantify blood flow velocities (Doppler imaging), and analyse tissue characteristics (strain imaging).

• Integration with Practice Management Software: This allows for efficient documentation, storage, and retrieval of ultrasound findings, streamlining workflow and enhancing communication among veterinary care teams.

A Guide to Veterinary Ultrasound Transducers

Ultrasound transducers, or probes, vary in shape (e.g., linear, convex, phased array, microconvex) and frequency (measured in Hz), each influencing image penetration and clarity. Higher frequencies (e.g., 7.5 MHz and above) provide finer resolution for superficial structures like tendons or superficial masses, whereas lower frequencies (e.g., 3.5 MHz) penetrate deeper tissues such as abdominal organs or large muscle groups.

• Linear transducers provide high-resolution musculoskeletal, superficial soft tissue and vascular imaging.

• Convex/curvilinear transducers offer wide-field abdominal, obstetric and cardiac imaging.

• Phased Array transducers are ideal for echocardiography in small animals due to the ability to visualize cardiac structures from different angles, as well as for abdominal imaging requiring deeper tissue penetration in obese patients.

• Microconvex transducers enable paediatric and neonatal imaging.

Why Enquire Through Vet Trade?

Vet Trade provides a diverse range of veterinary ultrasound machines by linking you with reputable veterinary ultrasound machine suppliers including BCF Ultrasound Australasia, DLC, Radincon, VetTech Australia and Catagra Group, for brands including GE Healthcare, Mindray, Butterfly, Edan, IMV Imaging and more - making it easy to discover the appropriate equipment for your clinic’s needs.

Advice for Purchasing Veterinary Ultrasound Machines

When investing in a veterinary ultrasound machine, considerations include portability and battery life for ambulatory clinics, user-interface preferences (keyboard vs. touchscreen) and the required level of quality (high-quality ultrasound machines offer superior image resolution and clearer delineation of anatomical details. Enquire about support, delivery times, and total cost of ownership (including maintenance and upgrades). Establish clear requirements and priorities and make sure to get multiple quotes to ensure you are making an informed purchase decision. Using Vet Trade helps you leverage the latest advancements in ultrasound technology to provide comprehensive diagnostic services to your patient's needs.