New-Generation Pocket-Sized Portable Ultrasound System Unveiled

A new portable, app-based, dual-probe ultrasound system intended for use in hospitals, ambulances and rural environments has been unveiled.

The system can be integrated with a hospital Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine (DICOM) systems, and uses cloud-based image storage and communication. The system also offers data encryption and high-level data security standards.

The GE Healthcare Vscan Extend system is the newest of a line of previous pocket-sized ultrasounds system and can be used to assess patients with heart failure, or to measure bladder volume, for example. The system also features wireless connectivity and a touch screen, and weighs only 406 grams. The size and portability of the Vscan Extend will enable it to be used not only by expanded care beyond traditional ultrasound users, but also in new and emerging markets.

Vscan Extend is currently commercially available in Europe. The U.S. release of the system is planned for the end of January 2017.

Lead for Echocardiography and Clinical Cardiologist Dr. Guy Lloyd, Barts Heart Centre, said, “Vscan Extend completely changes the game in how we are able to use ultrasound both inside and outside hospitals. For the first time on handheld ultrasounds, we can pre-populate the device with images thanks to the DICOM integration, which then cascades the images through PACS, enabling seamless collaboration with colleagues in our hospital system. As a result, we are able to provide rapid diagnostics to patients, increase efficiency, and save on cost.”