Refining the sonic flashlight for interventional procedures

Ultrasound (US) is often used in interventional procedures such as accessing blood vessels, performing biopsies, and placing drains. The sonic flashlight (SF) is a handheld device that uses a mirror to reflect a real-time US image into the body, making that body part appear translucent. The latest generation handheld SF has been improved to the point where it can be applied to procedures involving fine structures such as vasculature and small tumors. We have dramatically decreased the size, weight, and display lag-time, while increasing resolution. With these improvements, the operator can now clearly visualize and discriminate between small structures. We believe that this version of the SF is ready for clinical trials.