Table 1.

Characteristics of common ultrasound transducers

Transducer	Configuration	Imaging depth	Frequency (Hz)	Application
Standard linear	Long, narrow rectangular probe face	9 cm	5–13	Visualization of superficial structures—pleural ultrasound, procedural guidance such as dialysis catheter placement
Neonatal/pediatric linear	Hockey stick configuration		7–22	Lungs in neonates and infants along with superficial structures. Fits in better between the ribs in smaller children
Phased array	Small, square probe face	35 cm	1–5	Deeper penetration, primarily used for cardiac ultrasound. Abdominal structures can be visualized but not optimal
Neonatal/pediatric phased array	Square or rectangular probe face		4–8	It has a smaller footprint to fit better between rib spaces
Curvilinear	Curved or rectangular probe face	30 cm	1–5	Deeper penetration, provides a wider field of view Abdominal and thoracic face visualization, including renal, aorta, IVC, bladder, bowel Procedural guidance such as kidney biopsy