Opthalmic Ultrasound Probes Controlled Through Magnetic Fields

Opthalmic Ultrasound Probes Controlled Through Magnetic Fields

 A new 50-MHz, high-frequency ultrasound biomicroscope (UBM) ophthalmic probe now includes an advanced magnetic transducer.

The scanning motion in the ultrasound is controlled through magnetic fields instead of mechanical movements as in earlier versions.

This new technology offers a faster scanning process, which has increased the image resolution by one-third. Further advantages include a lighter-weight design and less vibration when performing an ultrasound, decreasing user fatigue. The probe’s durability and effectiveness is also improved by eliminating mechanical components.

Quantel Medical (Clermont-Ferrand, France; www.quantel-medical.com) has introduced two new diagnostic ultrasound probes to their flagship ultrasound platform, Aviso, at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery annual meeting, held April 2013 in San Francisco (CA, USA). The new probes provide enhanced diagnosis capability for posterior and anterior segment ophthalmic conditions.

The new 10 MHz B-scan probe offers similar benefits for posterior pole diagnosis. This B-scan probe provides superior image quality for viewing and assessment of the detailed structures in the vitreous and the orbital wall.

Increased image acquisition rate allows for high-definition characterization of ocular structures and their movements. The dynamic gain functionality of the 10 MHz allows users to adjust settings to find the optimal tissue differentiation in the image, allowing for more visual clarity and better determination of the condition of the eye.

“These two product introductions reflect Quantel’s commitment to developing the most robust and advanced ultrasound technology available to ophthalmologists,” stated Mr. Jean-Marc Gendre, CEO of Quantel Medical. “Image quality and ease of acquisition are two critical features that we strive to improve and provide to our customers.”

The Aviso ultrasound platform is configurable to include the new 50-MHz and 10-MHz probes, as well as biometry and Standardized echography modules. Quantel Medical’s range of posterior and anterior segment ultrasound diagnostic systems provide eye-care physicians of all specialties with a critical tool for determining pathology and obtaining accurate measurements.