SonoSite launches 180 system

Hand-held ultrasound manufacturer SonoSite has begun shipping its SonoSite 180 ultrasound system worldwide. SonoSite received the CE Mark Sept. 15 for the system. The certification gives the Bothell, WA, company rights to distribute the system throughout the European Union.

The 5-lb unit allows for color power Doppler capability and uses digital broadband beam-forming technology. SonoSite received 510(k) clearance from the Food and Drug Administration for SonoSite 180 in April (SCAN 4/28/99) for such indications as gynecology, obstetrics, and abdominal imaging. The system is configured to offer both transabdominal and intravaginal imaging, according to SonoSite.

In other SonoSite news, the company has joined Office of the Future, a research and development consortium that is working to create a clinical office model that integrates technology, information, and design. The group plans to use SonoSite 180 in the exam and procedure rooms it is developing. Office of the Future includes such companies as Midmark, American Express Healthcare Finance, American Medical Development, GE Marquette Medical Systems, Health Care Data Systems, Hewlett-Packard, Lunar, and Sony Electronics Medical Systems.