Finding the right ultrasound scanner for equine reproductive work has always been a challenge. On the one hand, excellent image quality is key to spotting problems early, but the highest resolution scanners tend not to be the most portable. Ultra-portable, durable scanners like the Siui CTS-800 are fantastic for mobile work, but there’s always a trade-off in terms of image quality.

With Sonosite set to pull out of the veterinary market later this year or next, the popular M-Turbo is yet another option that will be disappearing for equine vets, with used models also now a risky choice due to uncertainty around continued support and servicing.

Now, you’re probably thinking this is all leading up to “announcing the new Equi PerfectScan 1.0!”, but sadly not. A decision still has to be made, but with a decade of experience standing by the sides of veterinarians as they test out various scanners, listening to their feedback, let me present you with the two most successful options I’ve found to date. To be clear: equine vets are a tough crowd to please. They’re perfectionists when it comes to their ultrasound scanners, and things need to be ‘just right’, which can sometimes be completely impossible because what they are looking for is a scanner that looks and feels exactly what they are already using (but isn’t). So, “most successful” here does not mean “instant perfection” – more “best tolerated, ultimately loved.”

Where only the best image quality will do

The Apogee 1000 Lite is the best choice where image quality is the number one priority. For the price, it is completely unrivalled. It can be run from a battery if required (but battery life is limited, so mains power is required if scanning several mares over a long time period), and the keyboard is completely splash-proof, which helps not only with spills but also when working in damp environments that can be a killer for other models of ultrasound machine. The ‘full screen’ mode on this scanner is particularly impressive.

The downside is that it is still a laptop-style scanner with a 60-second boot-up time, that cannot be held in one hand. It needs to be setup somewhere safe.

When portability is key

For total portability, the previously mentioned CTS-800 is still the best choice for equine reproductive scanning. Compact, lightweight and durable, it still delivers excellent image quality for its price bracket (well under £3000). For vets who need a scanner that boots up quickly and is ready for anything, the CTS-800 is the best choice.