A finger-worn ultrasound probe for point-of-care applications

We report on the SonicEye® ultrasound probe, a high frequency, linear ultrasound probe worn on the finger. The form factor of the probe facilitates easier learning and greater ease of use over traditional hand-held probes as the probe leverages hand-eye proprioceptive coordination. The high frequency probe is suitable for “small-parts” imaging and ultrasound-guided needle procedures including vascular access, nerve blocks, biopsies and central line placement. A low frequency, bi-plane version of the probe is under development suitable for general diagnosis and emergency trauma assessment. In tandem we are developing a wearable ultrasound system to pair with the probe, which communicates wirelessly to nearby monitors, PDAs or heads-up displays. The ergonomic form of the probe and future wearable complementary technologies should facilitate greater ultrasound use in point-of-care applications.