Ultrasound Machine Reviews Diagnostic Ultrasound machine reviews on portable and console ultrasound machines. Includes the archive and new ultrasound machines, including video reviews of ultrasound machines.
Mindray DC-7 Ultrasound Review Video review of the Mindray DC-7 ultrasound machine. A mid-range ultrasound with a great price-point. An ultrasound review.
4D Imaging with the Voluson i This video gives you an excellent idea of what the Voluson i can do, and is consistently among the best-rated and most-viewed blog entries and reviews on this site.
Best ultrasound video and literature site This is one of the best sites on the internet for learning about ultrasound scanning, techniques, and helpful imaging resources.
Dr. Diaz's site Colombian doctor with good information on the technical aspects of diagnostic ultrasound
SonoWorld This is one of the best diagnostic ultrasound sonography sites available. It includes a lot of case studies, images, equipment information, videos and more. Excellent source for all sorts of help and reference for diagnostic ultrasound. Definitely one of my favorites.
Looking for Brian Gill's Ultrasound Reviews? All of my latest reviews and ultrasound training videos are now hosted with my employer Providian Medical, where one of my key jobs is to evaluate and compare ultrasound equipment, as well as advise our sales staff on the best equipment for the price.
My Reviews can be found on the Providian Medical Blog. There, you can find more than 150 training videos and reviews of many different ultrasound machines.
Please check out all my latest stuff there. I've been very busy over the past 6 years at Providian providing more frequent content on the latest ultrasound machines.
Unfortunately I don't have time to write reviews for all the ultrasounds that pass my desk, and I realize that it's likely that you're here for one reason: you want help with a tough and expensive purchase.
For example, here is BY FAR, the most common email I get:
"Dear Brian, I am an XXXXX and I am considering XXXX machine. Do you think I'm choosing the right machine or am I way off-track and should choose something else?"
Does this sound like you? You're not alone. So I've built a free solution for you. It's easy for me to update and easy for you to view.
It's a list of the Top Portable Ultrasound Machines for sale. It includes systems from the usual suspects: GE, Acuson, and SonoSite, but also some surprises like those from SIUI and and SonoScape that I haven't mentioned yet. Sorry Philips, I don't think you'll make this list until you make something that's reasonably priced.
I'll update this list of my reviews on best portable ultrasounds and it will have the latest and greatest based on what I've seen and what customers say about what they've purchased. GE and SonoSite have really done a great job in the market, but some new competitors have introduced incredible price/performance that I can't resist putting on the list.
Stay tuned as I build them for other modalities and applications. Let me know your thoughts in the comments and if you have any suggestions for other modalities!
A look at the popular high-end portable ultrasound product from Mindray
This is a beautiful machine. I cover a lot of the features in the video, including its 4D imaging capabilities, but this portable ultrasound machine really hits the mark. On par with the SonoSite M-Turbo/Edge products and some of the Vivid lines from GE, the price/performance of this system is extremely hard to beat.
The Market for the M7
While this product has been very popular for use of orthopedics, MSK, needle guided injections, anesthesiology, veins, vascular and other such emerging markets, this system really does a nice job as a full shared-service system. It has very capable cardiac capabilities (unlike the M5), 4D obstetric imaging and provides great imaging for abdominal, OB, GYN, endocrinology, etc. It is the first portable Mindray has released that provides great imaging for all modalities. A note: Stress Echo is not yet an option on this system. For that, you should still consider the GE Vivid i or GE Vivid e.UPDATE JULY 2012: The Mindray M7 now has integrated Stress Echo, TEE transesophegeal capabilities, "Extra Edge" for nerve imaging, and iNeedle needle visualization enhancement technology for needle-guided ultrasound.
Ideally, this system is fantastic for those running a mobile ultrasound business. Because of its strengths in so many areas, you can cover a wide range of clients with the same machine. Some who don't need 4D or cardiac choose the M5, MicroMaxx, or Logiq e to meet a budget demand. But established businesses that need the extra capabilities find it to meet all their needs (budget, image quality, portability, durability).
Also popular is the vein and musculoskeletal market. I have some images of the tendons in my hand on this video, and its
Very Important Note about the Video Review
All the images are done by me on my own body. My job is to recommend and sell ultrasound equipment. My customer base is typically made up of small offices who are looking to introduce ultrasound or upgrade their current system.
I am an expert on comparing these systems and I have a vast library of images from a great variety of ultrasound machines. I can TRULY compare images side-by-side with the same "technician" and "model", which allows me to make the best recommendation for their needs.
Additionally, in order to test and take images of these systems, I have to learn how to use them. When people purchase the system, I also offer free phone support to get them through those first scary months of using the ultrasound machine.
So when you view my videos, note that these images are done by the same person on the same body or phantom (except the 4D images of a live baby, of course). They're done by me, who has used the ultrasound and can actually tell you the benefits of each system and sell you the system that best fits your budget and needs.
Things I Overlooked...
This video has been in the works for way too long and I decided just to put it up there. I've got a lot in the queue but haven't had time to complete them all. (Sorry to say the intro skits are taking a backseat to the content.)
The video covers a lot of the features of the M7, but something I didn't actually state is its imaging for needle guidance. I have a few images included and you can SEE how good it is, but I don't discuss them well... There are images here where I use a phantom to show how a needle really "lights up" whether it's an echogenic needle or a standard needle. I use 20-22G needles and all appear clearly with excellent imaging of the needle tip. It is definitely superior to the M5 and other such systems...
A correction on the video: I mention the Logiq portables from GE, what I MEANT to say are the Vivid products from GE. The Logiq e and Logiq i are more in competition with the SonoSite MicroMaxx and Mindray M5 portable systems.
4D Imaging on the Mindray M7
This is not really a competitor to the Voluson i. While the 4D images I have seen are good, it's not going to match the Voluson i. If you're running a business where you'll offer some 4D imaging as something on the side, this will definitely work for you. If you're main focus is 4D... then you should probably consider the Voluson i.
The M7 has been a big hit with those using it and I've heard many stories of its success with side-by-side comparisons with similar products from Philips, GE, and SonoSite. Again, the price point is what wins the day for the Mindray M7.
Where to Buy One
If you want one or you're not sure if this or something else fits your needs... that's what I do for a living. You can email me at bgillgps@gmail.com, visit the GPS Medical website at http://www.gpsmed.com or call me at 866-347-7633
A look at the popular M-Turbo, its market, and overall use and functionality
At first, I can't say I loved the M-Turbo. However, the more I used the system I found how much I really liked it. The image quality is outstanding, and like its siblings SonoSite MicroMaxx and SonoSite Titan, it's very easy to use. This video review of the M-Turbo covers its strengths and weaknesses. Key strengths are its image quality, durability and ease-of-use. Its simplified user-interface makes it ideal for physicians who use an ultrasound as a tool for a quick diagnosis or to provide guidance for a procedure.
Nearly all the M-Turbo systems that I sell go to a physician. Typically these physicians are in an orthopedic, anesthesia, or pain management field. It is a good upgrade to the SonoSite MicroMaxx, however, the M-Turbo's price can be a bit out-of-reach for smaller offices. In such a case, the MicroMaxx is an excellent solution, as well as other systems such as the Mindray M5. Give me a call to find out which is best for your particular situation 866-347-7633.
At the time of this writing, SonoSite was just purchased by FujiFilm. So who knows what to expect in 2012 and beyond for SonoSite's products. I would expect to see more of the same with developments for these products. I have no concerns about warranties or support for the M-Turbo or other SonoSite ultrasounds.
We sell a lot of these units and there are plenty on the market for parts and service to be available for at least 10 years. Yes, 10 years. We still service systems from the late 1980's! Additionally, these products have been so popular that the market will continue to see more refurbished/used SonoSite ultrasound systems, which also means that prices will drop as more hit the market and newer systems are released. Enjoy the video, leave me a comment if you have questions or just tell me what you think and what else you'd like to see here.
A look at a great (or not-so-great) portable ultrasound machine
A quick personal note: this video was originally dedicated to an Emergency Room Physician. Last month, he purchased a MicroMaxx from me and had a request. I wanted to honor that request by dedicating a portion of this video to him... however, I cut the actual dedication. The dedication, or tribute, was the result of his suggestions for my "next video review."
He said he wants more explosions.
The problem? It has nothing to do with the review... but more importantly it was taking a lot of time... Rest assured to the many who have requested for more explosions, I will get an extended version out that will include a final cut of some sort of explosion and a special surprise for the ER physician.
A Brief summary of the MicroMaxx ultrasound review...
This ultrasound review covers the MicroMaxx, and what type of physician should buy it, such as an Emergency Department physician or anesthesiologist. Some will love it. Others... well... they will appreciate its durability when they throw it down and stomp on it. The MicroMaxx is best for specific markets... and that may not include you... I speak particularly from its usability factor. I put some visual examples in the video, and you'll see that work habits and overall techno-phobic tendencies are key factors in deciding on the MicroMaxx.
What's not included in the video? Some of the more minor frustrations I've had with it. The way it does cine loops and various other settings can be quite annoying at first... but that's certainly not a unique trait. There are ways to make changes to some quirks, but others are uneditible (annoying). With this in mind, the trade-off is that you get a lot of unique benefits that are a lifesaver to some situations... including techno-phobic doctors.
Over the years, I've had a lot of happy MicroMaxx customers... but that's because their environment and work-habits. When the environment is right, this thing is fantastic. But this is one of those machines that you really don't want to make a mistake in buying.
Call, email or leave a comment here if you'd like to talk.
I really like the Voluson i, it's been the only player in the market for portable 4D ultrasound machines. However, some new players are coming out and I'll put some reviews of them in the next few months as I've had time to see them in action.
This video outlines some of the highs and lows of the system...I've always disliked the user interface and I may address it in a different video. There are quite a few things about it, but those limitations can be overcome after a few weeks of use. The 4D imaging is provides is enough to balance the good with the bad. Plus, all the customers who buy their system from us at GPS Medical get a free training DVD on the Voluson i. It provides a full overview of the system.
In the following video, I've included 4D images as well as MSK (musculoskeletal), vascular, podiatric, and thyroid images. Remember that these are images that I did myself, sitting at my desk while testing these machines or doing training videos. These are not clinical images from the manufacturer. 4D images are done on a baby phantom, however. Last I checked, I'm not pregnant.
Enjoy, Brian Gill President, GPS Medical, Inc. 866-347-7633 http://www.gpsmed.com
Excellent in the Price/Performance category for a console (cart-based) ultrasound
Customers have really enjoyed the Mindray DC-7 and this video helps give you an idea of why. This console-based system exemplifies Mindray's upgraded technology and in-depth, high-tech architecture and software that shows it can compete with its cousins from GE and Siemens.
Our customer reviews have only been positive, with responses such as "excellent" and "perfect". Frankly, it's the price and that they are shocked at the image quality and professional high-tech look of the system. Particularly in the Phlebology, venous, and MSK categories. Here's our Review:
Questions or interested in purchasing a Mindray ultrasound system? email me at bgill@gpsmed.com or call at 866-347-7633.
I've updated the Mindray M5 video with some new images that better demonstrate IP (Image Procesing), iClear, and iBeam... as well as demonstrating the latest software revision.
Disclaimer: These are not created in a clinical setting... I scanned myself in these images with a probe in one hand while the other adjusted imaging controls...so for those who ask "can I get images like you have in your video?"... the answer is a resounding YES. The idea is to provide you with real-world images rather than the unlikely images you'll find in standard marketing materials.
In short: great system for a great price. In the M5 units we've sold, the overwhelming response is that it's an overachiever; customers are very pleased with the quality and performance they received for the price. It's easier to use than I'd expected, and the image quality makes it a serious competitor in the price/performance category. Think: new system, competitive performance for the price of a refurbished system in its price range. It's well-worth the price for nearly all markets. For cardiac, the price of this unit makes it hard to pass up.
Important note: The images you see are not clinical nor marketing images from some unrealistic lab setting. They're created in poor conditions yet provide impressive results. These are scans of my carotid as I was testing the system... and creating this review was an aftertought (I was sitting upright while holding the probe and manipulating the controls with the other hand). And because the conditions weren't ideal, I felt they were perfect examples of the MIndray M5's ease-of-use and its ability to provide great imaging with little-to-no effort.
In fact, these images were part of a training video I created for this system. You can get a free copy of this M5 training video when you purchase the system from GPS Medical. It's the only training video available on this system, and it's only available through GPS Medical (and it's free). With the purchase, you also receive free applications support. I've spent many hours delving into the depths of this system and you'll have a direct line to me. These are freebies that are not available through any other vendor.
I just received an excellent question on the comments board: Is the new Voluson e8 really that good?
In a word, YES.
Granted, this system is expensive, but after spending quite a bit of time with this unit, I'd have to say that it's one of my favorite machines to use. It's like it took the best of the Logiq 9 and the Voluson 730, smashed them together and turned out an outstanding product.
Are there issues? Yes. Don't buy the old one... BT06. That's why it's taken so long to make mention of it. The older software versions were problematic and it's a known factor in the industry. The problems were difficult, recurring and expensive. So bad, that there was nearly a warehouse full of the old ones. That's a fact.
But the new ones? Good luck finding 'em. The last one I had was in my office for 1.5 days... just enough to do full testing, refurb, and training video with our folks working nearly around the clock.
I'll be addressing the Voluson e8 in the coming week or two as I've just finished my work on it.
More to come... and I'll have a basic training video on it when I get time to complete it.
Beware of cheap marketing ploys on your ultrasound system.
For example, one of the most common requests is to get an Easy 3D package on their ultrasound, such as many of the GE Logiq ultrasounds, Logiqbook XP, and others. This is not 4D. It is not easy.
Let me repeat that.
EASY 3D is not 4D, and it is NOT EASY.
This is one of the more requested features for those looking for a budget 3D/4D ultrasound. It is a relatively useless feature and tremendously frustrating. It is really 3D ultrasound version 1.0, in which you have to manually sweep the probe. One movement, breath, anything will create a horrible image, and you have to manually render and cut the image. It's maddening and I tell people to pretend it's not there.
This is not a ploy to sell you a Voluson, iu22, P5, or X300 ultrasound with 4D. Really. Easy3D is not good for your "babyface" stuff if that's what you're looking for.
Last week, I visited a prominent East Coast University to train their vets on their new system: the Mindray DP-6600 Vet (also available for non-vet).
For those who aren't familiar, the DP-6600 is a small, portable black-and-white ultrasound system from the emerging company Mindray. The price is a HUGE factor, and the system, as I found out, is pretty good.
I'd never seen it in-action as a vet ultrasound, but since I'm getting increased calls on it, I thought I'd share my experiences.
In a nutshell: Overall, I was happy and surprised by the image quality of the machine. If you're looking for a solid black-and-white vet system, this is something you want to look at.
Top seven benefits of the DP-6600 (most of which apply to the human system as well):
Solid imaging. We scanned horse tendons while I was training the folks at the University, and I must say that the near-field resolution was better than I expected. No shaving necessary. The vets at the University were impressed. For human use, I'd done some MSK scanning on myself at the office and also found it to have solid imaging capabilities.
Lightweight. obviously an important factor for most vet situations. Not as small as other systems, but it feels pretty solid and like it might take some abuse in the barn without worry. It was small enough to handle but not too small.
Relatively easy to use for basic scanning. The boot time is quick, and shut down is easy. Gain is easy to access and typically it has 128-frame cine review so you can freeze and review the image if you need to go back and capture an image.
Digital Storage to USB, Hard Drive, or Network. This is nice, particularly for the University setting where images can be transferred via a jump drive.
Cost. Simply put, it's really inexpensive and makes it hard to look at anything else.
Durability. We've sold quite a few and I don't think we've had any calls except for needed assistance with understanding how to really optimize this ultrasound.
IP. This is their set of image optimization presets within the applications. While I'm sure it is overlooked by 90% of users, they really ought to play with it a bit. This feature allows you to quickly optimize your image without messing with a lot of the internal controls. I mean, seriously, I can count on one hand how many people have shown interest in adjusting Dynamic Range, Greyscale maps, persistence, frame averaging, etc. I teach it in most applications settings, but most users give me blank stare... and sometimes they'll blink once or twice to let me know they're alive. I just ask them what their preferences are and base presets off that.
To the point, though, for those applications in which Physicians, Vets, and in point-of-care operations where the user may not be a trained sonographer... the IP and other settings really are a blessing to those folks. Frankly, most sonographers prefer it as well.
HOWEVER, there are some negatives, as there always are, when it comes to this inexpensive system. You are definitely trading some of the nice bells and whistles to get a good cost on this ultrasound.
It's important to note that most of these "negatives" can be overcome. But don't rely on the manual to get you there.
Top Six Annoyances:
The operating system. This is the heart of nearly every issue I found on the system. It can be inconsistent, and if you don't understand all the principles of ultrasound and how the computer works, you'll go mad trying to figure out how the things I've listed here.
Defaults on vet applications. Some are fine, and the musculoskeletal applications on Equine were fine. However, for fertility, the maximum depth we could set it to was about 15cm.
This is a problem. A local Vet had come to our office a couple weeks ago, and she immediately removed this from her list of ultrasounds because of this limitation. Bummer, she liked it otherwise, and we did too.
But Low and Behold, I found a way to get more depth. You CAN increase the depth/penetration on all the probes, but you have to dig, dig, dig to find it... and when it's found, it doesn't appear to be an editable option. But it is. Rejoice, equine fertility is back on the radar and you can control this depth from the main interface thereafter.
Menus/customization: Again, it's the operating system. There are quirks to it that can be annoying, but after a couple days you'll get accustomed to it. If it's frustrating, remember what you paid and your pain should subside.
Cine Review. 128 frames. If you're scanning at 64 frames/second, you don't have much time to get from the animal to the Freeze button, particularly if you've got your arm in the part of an animal where the sun does not shine. This, too, can be overcome, but it's not a default preset. It requires some knowledge of how the ultrasound works and making some adjustments that would make your image better anyway. Rejoice, this limitation is overcome, and you can set the system to always work this way :-)
Battery and Trolley. There is no battery, and the cart, while inexpensive, isn't exactly an easy-roller in a barn. It IS light, which makes it easier, but I don't see it holding up to a lot of abuse. The limitation of no battery means you may want to keep an extension cord handy.
Inconsistencies in user experience/operation (not related to image quality). This goes back to menus and operating system. Clearly it was designed with the image quality first, and the user experience second. I'm fine with that, because it only takes a little time to get acclimated. Again, these are annoyances and not absolute negatives.
Summing it all up:
I recommend it. This is basically my reaction to all the Mindray systems. On a tight budget, you're going to get a good imaging system that takes time to acclimate. Not knowing computers or the system's true capabilities that are hidden, you'd definitely want applications training, which we can also provide to you.
You'd have to say that you get more than what you pay for here. All things considered, you'll get a new ultrasound with a good warranty that provides what you need at a good price. Image quality, the most important factor, doesn't disappoint. 80% of the "annoyances" can be overcome, and most would be ignored by fertility (human and vet) and those doing MSK work or otherwise.
When set up properly, there's little more to do than Boot and Scan. I should receive the larger DC-6 Color system later this week, and I'll try and get my hands on it long enough to get a review on it.
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