Wireless ultrasound technology has transformed the way veterinarians and medical professionals perform diagnostic imaging, offering unprecedented convenience and flexibility. Traditional ultrasound machines can be bulky and require complex setup procedures, making them difficult to transport and cumbersome to use in the field. Wireless probes eliminate many of these issues, offering portability without sacrificing image clarity.

PUM offers wireless ultrasound probes at varying price points: the ScanX Air, EchoPro, and PulseEcho systems, each designed to suit different diagnostic needs.

Pros of Wireless Ultrasound Probes

1. Portability and Convenience

One of the most significant advantages of a wireless probe is its compact size. Many models, like the ScanX Air, are small enough to fit in your pocket, making them ideal for professionals who are always on the move. Whether you’re scanning in a barn, a field, or a clinic, the convenience of a lightweight, handheld device is unmatched.

2. Reduced Strain and Fatigue

Traditional ultrasound machines can be heavy and awkward to manoeuvre, leading to fatigue, especially for those with arthritis or shoulder injuries. Wireless probes are lightweight, significantly reducing strain and making them a more ergonomic scanning option.

3. High-Quality Imaging

In the past, wireless probes were often criticised for poor image quality. However, with rapid advancements in technology, modern wireless probes now deliver exceptional clarity and resolution, ensuring accurate diagnostics without the need for bulky, tethered equipment. The ScanX Air, for example, offers outstanding image quality and a dual-head design, allowing for both convex and high-frequency linear scanning in one device.

4. No Need for External WiFi

A common misconception is that wireless ultrasound probes require an external WiFi network to function. This is false. These probes generate their own secure WiFi signal that your smartphone or tablet connects to directly, allowing for uninterrupted scanning no matter where you are.

5. Versatile Applications

Some wireless probes, such as the ScanX Air, come with dual-head designs, allowing users to seamlessly switch between different types of scanning. From abdominal scans to detailed imaging of small animals, reptiles, and even marine life (with a waterproof tablet housing), these probes are suitable for a wide range of applications.

The EchoPro is an excellent choice for point-of-care cardiac ultrasound, particularly for AFAST and basic cardiac examinations. With Colour and Pulsed Wave Doppler capabilities, it allows for assessment of valves and blood flow, helping to identify critical pathology for immediate patient management. Its wireless design makes it uniquely ideal for bedside screening and emergency situations.

For those looking for an entry-level system, the PulseEcho is designed to confirm or rule out pregnancy in animals such as dogs, cats, pigs, sheep, and goats. While not as detailed as more advanced models like the ScanX Air or KX5600L, it is an affordable option for users who need basic abdominal and pregnancy scanning without the price tag of high-end systems. It features a 3.5MHz 128-element ultrasound transducer.

Cons of Wireless Ultrasound Probes

1. Historically Lower Image Quality (Now Resolved)

Previously, wireless ultrasound probes had a reputation for lower image resolution compared to their wired counterparts. However, with ongoing advancements in technology, modern wireless probes now provide crystal-clear imaging that rivals traditional systems. The ScanX Air, for instance, ensures high-resolution images with excellent detail for a wide range of applications.

2. Signal Interference from Large Animals or Water

While ultrasound technology works particularly well in water, WiFi signals do not travel well through water or thicker animal bodies. This means that when scanning large animals, signal interference can occur if your device is resting on the animal’s back. The solution? Hold your phone or tablet in your other hand or at a lower angle with a direct line of sight to the probe.

For marine applications, a custom waterproof housing is required to ensure seamless connectivity and device protection in aquatic environments.

Choosing the Right Wireless Ultrasound Probe

With so many wireless ultrasound probes available, it’s essential to choose a device that meets your specific needs. Factors to consider include image quality, battery life, probe design, and application versatility.

• If you need a high-quality, versatile probe, the ScanX Air is a top-tier choice with its dual-head design and excellent imaging capabilities.
• For point-of-care cardiac ultrasound, the EchoPro provides Doppler functionality for valve and blood flow assessment, perfect for emergency and bedside use.
• If you require a basic and budget-friendly system for pregnancy scanning, the PulseEcho offers an affordable entry-level option for abdominal examinations in animals.

At PUM, we offer a curated selection of high-quality, reliable scanners designed to meet the demands of busy professionals. Our in-house sonographers are also available to provide expert guidance, ensuring you get the most from your device.

Looking for a wireless ultrasound probe? Get in touch today to explore our range of cutting-edge scanners!