SonoSite, DI launch portable ultrasound unit

SonoSite and its distribution partner, Diagnostic Imaging of Jacksonville, FL, last month introduced SonoSite’s portable ultrasound system at the American Healthcare Radiology Administrators meeting in Orlando. SonoSite 180 is a digital, hand-carried unit that weighs 5.4 pounds and provides color power Doppler capability. SonoSite has an exclusive distributor agreement with PSS World Medical subsidiary Diagnostic Imaging for SonoSite 180 in the private practice market. DI featured the unit in its booth at the meeting.

SonoSite plans to begin shipping the system in October, for use in obstetrical, gynecological, urological, and abdominal applications. The company received 510(k) clearance for the unit from the Food and Drug Administration in May of last year (SCAN 5/13/98).