The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the handheld ultrasound device, SONON 300L, for use by primary care providers (PCPs). The device is indicated for ultrasound echo imaging, measurement, and analysis of the human body for general clinical applications including musculoskeletal, vascular, small parts (breast, thyroid), and lung imaging.

            SONON 300L works in tandem with an app that displays the images for analysis on both tablets and smartphones. The device, which weighs just 13 ounces, has a rechargeable, lithium ion-battery (3-hour continuous scanning battery life), WiFi connectivity and 3G/LTE cellular capability. It also supports medical imaging protocols including DICOM (Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine) and PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System).             

         Since its founding in 2014, the Vancouver-based startup Clarius has specialized in developing a handheld ultrasound scanner that connects wirelessly to a smartphone app, available through iOS and Android app stores, to display the image. Medical professionals can move the Clarius scanner on the desired area, no gel required. Battery powered, water-submersible and drop resistant, the device offers high-quality imaging of the entire chest and abdomen, including vital organs such as the heart and lungs.

           Clarius makes several handheld scanners ranging in price from $6,900 to $9,900, from the currently available cheaper black and white image C3 model to a full-color L7 premium scanner that should be available by summer 2017. Traditionally, the cost of an ultrasound system has started around $25,000 with high-end systems topping out over $250,000.