Tablet-based ultrasound system receives FDA approval

The Sonomed Escalon VuPad tablet-based ultrasound imaging system has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration 510(k) clearance.

The VuPad, manufactured by Escalon Medical Corp., combines ultrasound biomicroscopy and newly enhanced B-scan image quality with an ultra-high-resolution screen that the company says has a larger viewing area than other portable ultrasound devices. It is designed to capture both crisp still images and high-resolution video clips that can be reviewed frame by frame.

The company anticipates immediate shipments of VuPad systems as orders are received and manufacturing ramps up to meet demand. CE marking and clearance by other international regulatory bodies is expected in the coming months.

"We are pleased by the initial indications and the long term opportunity surrounding the VuPad and other new products in our pipeline; however, we may experience sales fluctuations as we update our product offering,” said Richard J. DePiano Jr., the company’s CEO. “In addition, planned increases to research and development expenses, as well as increased sales and marketing costs, could pressure financial results."