A new miniaturized cardiovascular ultrasound system can provide diagnostic information outside of an imaging lab, including at the bedside, in operating rooms, and in critical care units. Called the Vivid i, the new system offers the reliability of a large cardiovascular ultrasound system in a portable, 10-pound (4.5 kg), wireless design. Although it resembles a laptop computer, the manufacturer, GE Healthcare, likens it to a visual stethoscope.

The new system has already obtained Food and Drug Administration approval and will be commercially available soon, according to the manufacturer.