Ultrasound transducers

Abstract

Diagnostic medical ultrasound transducers have evolved through the years and have contributed significantly to improved patient care. This article discusses the history and types of transducers and the elements that have changed over time. There has been a sharp transition from natural to human-made elements and from one to many in a single transducer. Ergonomics also now plays a role in transducer design and will continue to do so; the grip, weight, and size of transducers are in the forefront of design considerations. The evolution of transducers has changed not only how well we visualize anatomy and what anatomy we see but also how the patient's care is managed. Different, new, and emerging technologies certainly will continue to be identified within the sonography community.