Global Health Medical Device Compendium/Vscan

The use of ultrasound machines is a common, non-invasive way to diagnose a variety of cardiovascular diseases. However, the expense of one of these machines, plus the cost to operate and maintain it, is not an option for most developing countries. Additionally, a trained technician is necessary for operation. There is a need for an alternative method to diagnose cardiovascular diseases.

The Vscan is a small, handheld device that is the size of a smartphone with powerful ultrasound technology. It has a small screen that shows images picked up by a small attached wand. It is a quick, non-invasive way to scan a patient's organs or a fetus.

• Created by: GE Healthcare
• A link to there website is available here

The Vscan is sold in Europe, North and South America, the Middle East, Africa, and India.

This project received internal funding.

Frederiksen, C. A., Juhl-Olsen, P., Larsen, U. T., Nielsen, D. G., Eika, B., & Sloth, E. (2010). New pocket echocardiography device is interchangeable with high-end portable system when performed by experienced examiners. Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica, 54(10), 1217-1223.

Ostrovsky, G. (2010, February 16). medGadget. Link available here.

A feature by GE of the Vscan is available here