Types of Probes:

There are three main types of ultrasound probes: curvilinear, linear and phased.

Curvilinear. This is a low frequency probe with a curved face. Typically used for abdominal, gyne, obstetrical and pleural scanning. The curved face gives and increased field of view, while the lower frequency allows for better penetration.

Linear: High frequency probe with a flat, rectangular face. Used for vascular, small parts and musculoskeletal scanning. Due to shape of probe, image is rectangular, not a curved arc. *Tip: Most units have an option to make the image widescreen, increasing the field of view.

Phased: Low Frequency rectangular shaped probe with a small face. Primarily used for cardiac scanning (echocardiography). The small face of the probe allows it to fit between ribs, but the arrangement of crystals creates a curvilinear field of view.