We’ve just launched something truly innovative, and I’m so excited to tell you all about it!
The new, patent-pending eCLi6 transducer for EVO and SA2 is a hybrid probe for transrectal imaging in large animal species (horses and cattle most commonly). To fully appreciate its development, let’s take a quick step back in time.
In 2012, we pioneered the concept of a curved rectal probe. This technology used the convex array, low frequency, and deep penetration of a macroconvex tranabsominal probe (currently the eCL3) and housed it in a rectal probe. The idea here was that the same probe that we used for diagnosing pregnancy in small ruminants and camelids externally could now be used internally as well, and would excel at imaging deeper, later pregnancies. This concept was a huge win for beef cow operations in particular, as it facilitated the use of an arm-free device and allowed visualization of a larger, later gestation fetus. (Read more about flat vs curved linear probe selection here...Flat Linear vs. Curved Rectal Probe: How Do I Choose?)
However, per the physics of ultrasound, image resolution is lost when penetration is gained with a lower frequency. Over the years, the physical and software characteristics of this curved rectal probe were refined to produce a really nice balance of performance and clarity, and it remains the gold standard for beef reproductive work as well as a favorite among mixed large animal practitioners looking to invest in one transducer for multiple applications.
Last year, we decided to take this process a step further and set out to achieve the impossible dream of developing a rectal probe with no compromises—one that would image as well as a flat linear probe, but offer the field of view and penetration of a curved rectal probe. A hybrid of the original hybrid, so to speak. And so the eCLi6 was born.
Featuring a shorter array with a tighter pitch (meaning the 128 ultrasound-producing elements along the length of the array are squished closer together, increasing lateral resolution) and a shallower curvature, the eCLi6 seems more familiar to those users accustomed to a traditional flat linear rectal probe. The gently curved face makes easy mucosal contact without pushing structures away, and feels much slimmer in the hand than the original curved rectal probe, the eCLi4. Most importantly, the probe’s performance speaks for itself. In our field testing, we’ve found that the vast majority of equine and bovine practitioners are preferring the eCLi6 over the eL7 flat linear probe. The images are outstanding at a range of depths, and the versatility makes it an obvious choice. From ovaries and open uterus to fetal sexing, CTUP, and late gestation pregnancy diagnosis, this new transducer is a jack-of-all-trades and a master of all!
View image samples or contact us for a no-strings-attached demo and see for yourself!
Dr. Wierman is Staff Veterinarian
and Director of Education for
E.I. Medical Imaging
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