| abstract |
An ultrasonic prostate probe assembly is disclosed, characterized by the ultrasonic transducer being carried upon a gimbal cup which is rotatably mounted to the probe assembly to allow selection of multiple sector scan directions during operation of the probe. The transducer is pivoted via a spring biased cable linkage connected to a linear motor having an electric coil as the reciprocating moving member. Selective rotation of the gimbal cup is effectuated by manipulation of an additional cable linkage extending axially through the probe assembly. The use of multiple sector scan directions allows improved identification and sizing of problematic body tissue in applications such as prostate applications where space constraints prevent manipulation of the probe into differing scanning positions. |