Handheld Ultrasound Machine vs Portable Ultrasound Machine

Thanks to advances in medical technology, doctors and nurses can conduct an ultrasound by a patient’s bedside. Such a development means that immobile or badly injured patients receive the same level of care without aggravating their conditions. That’s why they need to determine if a handheld ultrasound machine vs. a portable ultrasound machine is better.

Point-of-care medicine also allows doctors to administer treatment to patients outdoors or in facilities with limited supplies. For that reason, any equipment involved needs to be convenient and portable while delivering high image quality and accuracy.

Benefits Of Pocket-Sized Devices For Ultrasounds

A handheld ultrasound device often consists of a probe that connects to a tablet, smartphone, or similarly-sized device. A doctor can quickly conduct an ultrasound in real-time and decide for a patient needing care in a short window of time.

One benefit is that handheld devices are lightweight and can deliver assessments quickly. When a patient is in critical condition, the right choice can be to increase or decrease the quality of health.

Due to the tiny size, technicians find it easier to sterilize these devices. They can even use reusable plastic sleeves for extra protection. After each use, ultrasound machines require sterilization for every person’s safety. Due to being a probe and a tiny computer-like device, the process takes less time for a handheld device.

The pandemic has shown the importance of convenient devices that can conduct scans in real-time and require less disinfectant. While not all people infected with the virus suffer lung damage or breathing problems, physicians can quickly assess by scanning their lungs. Then they can recommend treatment.

One potential downside, however, is that doctors need to assess if handheld ultrasounds can provide the same accuracy for musculoskeletal ultrasounds as their portable counterparts do. A study revealed that, out of 42 male and 58 female patients, that a handheld device had 96% accuracy compared to a portable ultrasound. The study concluded that doctors need to know the limits for handheld devices when handling such tissue examinations.

What Portable Ultrasound Devices Offer

Often, portable ultrasound machines and probes use mobile carts for transportation. Engineers designed them to replace console-based machines and increase convenience for medical facilities. The devices are computer or tablet-sized, while hooked up to equipment. Some come with an option for a table set up, allowing for flexibility.

One benefit of portable options is that, like handheld devices, they are designed for use in confined spaces. Carts can navigate narrow corridors and crowded wards, reaching more patients in a shorter amount of time.

Portable ultrasound systems will also deliver accuracy on a more consistent basis. They are designed for specific medical applications and can help a doctor diagnose with better care for the patient.

Administer Point-Of-Care Ultrasounds With Machines From National Ultrasound

National Ultrasound wants to ensure that you have the ideal handheld or portable ultrasound device for your emergency room or medical facility. We retail new and refurbished machines so that you can sell like new.

To find out more about what machine is right for your clinic or facility, reach out to us today. National Ultrasound is more than ready to help you find a machine that matches your medical needs and diagnostic tools.