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A new medical device, handheld ultrasound has the potential to revolutionize the way doctors examine patients.

The high-tech tool is a pocket-sized ultrasound, letting physicians take a quick look inside a patient to help better diagnose a problem.

"In the past we deduced what was happening in the heart from what we heard," San Diego Cardiologist Dr. Tony DeMaria said. "Now we can visualize it directly."

Patient James Himmelsbach has had problems with his coronary arteries and concerns with high blood pressure. Now he gets a scan without the stress of a more complex procedure.

"For this kind of experience it's non-anxiety provoking because here I am in an office, in a hospital setting but not really," Himmelsbach said.

The Vscan runs on a rechargeable battery and can be linked to a computer to download information.

Weighing less than a pound and small enough to fit in his pocket, Dr. DeMaria said patients have been surprised.

"They're all relatively amazed that so much technology can be put into such a small package," Dr. DeMaria said.

Dr. DeMaria said although it doesn't deliver the resolution and detail of a full eco-cardiograph, it has the potential to transform the way doctors see patients. "I anticipate that in the future that small handheld ultrasound devises will be incorporated into almost every aspect of a regular physical examination."

Source: NBC

Discuss more about Ultrasound in the Ultrasound user group.