Convex Ultrasound Scanners
A Convex Ultrasound Scanner (also called a curvilinear ultrasound probe) is a type of medical imaging device used to create images of internal body structures using high-frequency sound waves. It has a curved transducer head that emits sound waves in a wider field of view compared to linear probes.
Convex & Linear
Convex Transvaginal Ultrasound Scanner with Cardiac Function
Convex Scanners
Convex & Linear
NEW – 3 in 1 Linear Convex Color Doppler with Cardiac Functions
What Are Convex Ultrasound Scanners?
Convex ultrasound scanners (also known as curved array or curvilinear transducers) are one of the most commonly used types of ultrasound probes in medical imaging.
A convex ultrasound scanner uses a curved transducer - meaning the surface of the probe that contacts the patient’s body is slightly curved outward.
Inside the probe, there are multiple piezoelectric crystals arranged in a curved line. These crystals emit and receive sound waves that create images of internal organs and tissues on a screen.
Because of the wider field of view the curvature provides, convex probes are ideal for imaging deeper structures within the body.
What Are They Used For?
Convex probes are multi-purpose and typically used for deep and broad imaging applications, including:
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Abdominal scans (liver, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, gallbladder, etc.)
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Obstetrics and gynecology (pregnancy scans, uterus, ovaries)
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Urology (bladder, prostate, kidneys)
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General and emergency medicine (FAST scans, trauma assessment)
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Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) — for bedside or emergency diagnostics
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Cardiology (limited use) — sometimes for basic cardiac or thoracic scans
Who Uses Them?
Convex ultrasound scanners are widely used by:
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Doctors and sonographers in hospitals and clinics
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GPs and primary care practitioners for general scans
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Emergency medicine physicians for trauma and acute care
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Obstetricians and gynecologists for pregnancy and pelvic imaging
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Urologists for bladder, kidney, and prostate exams
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Radiologists for general abdominal imaging
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Veterinarians (for large animals, due to depth penetration)
Why Are They Preferred?
Convex probes are preferred for several reasons:
| Advantage | Description |
|---|---|
| Wide field of view | The curved shape allows for a broader scan area, ideal for abdominal and obstetric imaging. |
| Deep tissue penetration | Excellent for scanning organs that lie deeper within the body. |
| Versatility | Can be used for a wide range of applications (abdominal, OB/GYN, urology, emergency). |
| Ease of use | Works well for both portable and stationary ultrasound systems. |
| Comfortable contact | The curved surface conforms better to body contours than flat probes. |
Technical Characteristics (Typical)
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Frequency range: 2–5 MHz (lower frequency = deeper penetration, lower resolution)
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Field of view: Up to 60–120° (wider than linear or phased probes)
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Image type: Sector or trapezoidal scan field
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Common sizes: 3.5 MHz convex probes are standard for general abdominal use.
In Summary
Convex ultrasound scanners are the go-to choice for deep imaging of the abdomen, pelvis, and other large body cavities. They’re popular among healthcare professionals because they balance depth, clarity, and field of view, making them ideal for both diagnostic accuracy and versatility in clinical settings.
FAQ
A convex ultrasound scanner is a medical imaging device that uses a curved probe to send sound waves into the body and produce clear, real-time images of internal organs. The curved design provides a wider view, making it ideal for scanning deep areas like the abdomen or pelvis.
Convex scanners are used for a variety of medical applications, including:
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Abdominal and pelvic imaging
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Pregnancy and gynecological scans
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Bladder, kidney, and prostate assessments
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Emergency and point-of-care diagnostics
They’re excellent for viewing deep structures and getting a broad field of view.
They are widely used by:
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Doctors and sonographers in hospitals and clinics
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GPs and private practitioners
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Obstetricians and gynecologists
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Urologists
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Emergency care professionals
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Care and nursing home clinicians for quick bedside scans
Convex probes are preferred because they:
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Offer deep tissue penetration for organs like the liver, bladder, and kidneys
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Provide a wide scanning field, capturing more anatomy in one view
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Are versatile, suitable for many clinical applications
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Deliver clear images while being easy to handle and comfortable for patients
Typically, convex probes can image up to 20–30 cm deep, depending on the model and frequency. This makes them ideal for abdominal, pelvic, and obstetric imaging.
Most convex probes operate between 2 MHz and 5 MHz — lower frequencies allow deeper imaging, while higher frequencies offer better resolution for shallower areas.
Yes! Many portable ultrasound machines use convex probes for quick bedside assessments, especially in care homes, emergency departments, and general practice clinics. They’re compact, reliable, and easy to disinfect.
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Convex probes are curved, providing a wider, deeper view — perfect for abdominal and pelvic scans.
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Linear probes are flat and high-frequency — ideal for shallow imaging like veins, muscles, and thyroid scans.
Yes. Ultrasound technology is non-invasive and radiation-free, making it completely safe for both patients and healthcare professionals, including pregnant women.
Absolutely. Portable convex ultrasound scanners are increasingly used in care homes, GP surgeries, and private clinics for quick, on-site diagnosis — helping save time, reduce hospital trips, and improve patient comfort.