What Are The Different Ultrasound Probes Used For?

Types of Ultrasound Probes

Probe types are most easily determined by looking at the shape of the probe. Each type of probe has a different specialty, but some can be used for a myriad of tests. Their shape and internal crystal makeup differentiate the way that they display images, and the frequencies that they operate on. We’ll explain some of the most popular ones below in detail.

Linear Probe

Linear probes have a flat array and appearance. A linear probe’s piezoelectric crystals are arranged in a linear formation to create a straight sound wave. Linear probes can be applied to a wide variety of uses, such as vascular, breast, thyroid, tendon examinations and more. These probes typically have a rectangular beam with high near-field resolution and run at a high frequency to produce a better image resolution.

Convex Probe

Convex probes (also called curved linear probes) have a curved array that allows for a wider field of view. The makeup of the piezoelectric crystals in the convex array probe are arranged in a curvilinear fashion. These types of ultrasound probes are complex and can have over 500 elements in their crystal makeup. Typically, these are great for more in-depth examinations. These transducers serve a variety of purposes and are great for vascular, abdominal, OB/GYN, nerve and musculoskeletal examinations. Because of its shape, convex probes are primarily used for abdominal scans due to their wider and deeper view.

Endocavitary Probe

Endocavitary probes have a much longer probe handle and a “U” shaped lens and array. These probes are used for scanning the inside of the body. Because of the shape, endocavitary probes do not have a great range of depth, but they allow for a wider field than even the convex probes.

Phased Array/Cardiac Probe

Phased array or cardiac probes have a smaller handle with a square-shaped lens and array. Usually, they scan images of the heart. Phased array probes will have greater depth in order to reach the heart and produce an image. The phased array crystal arrangement is what gives this transducer its name. Phased Array transducers have fewer crystals in them, which means that the crystals fire in phases to create the image seen on the screen.

Transesophageal (TEE) Probe

TEE probes are cardiac type probes that provide an obstructed image of the heart by inserting the probe into the esophagus, and into the patient’s stomach. These probes move four different directions, and movement is controlled by the handle controls.