When it comes to getting good image quality, simple things like ultrasound gel are essential. In fact it is not recommended to do an ultrasound scan without it.

Purpose of Ultrasound Gel

Ultrasound sound waves have a hard time traveling through the air, and so ultrasound gel is placed on both the animals skin and the ultrasound probe. This is why your pet will need its fur shaved or clipped before the procedure to allow for the ultrasound gel to adhere to the skin. Ultrasound gel creates a bond between the skin and the probe preventing the air interference and resulting in a reduction of acoustic impedance and reflection to give you a clearer image. 

Another helpful purpose of ultrasound gel is the role of lubrication. Gel helps move the probe smoothly over the skin when preforming an ultrasound scan. 

Common Questions

Is it toxic?

No, the ingredients used to make ultrasound gel are non-toxic and safe to use by trained veterinary professionals. This gel is harmless and should not pose a problem for your pet.

Does it expire?

The typical shelf life of gel is 5 years. It is recommended once opened it should be used within 28 days.

Does it have to be cold?

Ultrasound gel is a water-based product and acclimates to the temperature of the environment. Typically clinics and hospitals are on the colder side, and this makes for cold gel. An ultrasound gel warmer can used to keep ultrasound gel bottles at a warm temperature.

Can't I use any form of lubrication?

Other substances, such as jellies or lotions, have not been manufactured with the conduction of ultrasound waves in mind. Ultrasound gel is specifically formulated to be as close to the acoustic impedance of the transducer surface and/or soft tissue as possible.

Ultrasound Gel Recommendations

Using correctly formulated ultrasound gel is an inexpensive and easy way that you can get the most out of your machine for the best images. Aquasonic 100 brand is the most widely used gel for diagnostic and therapeutic ultrasounds. Made in the USA, and a world leader in ultrasound gel. The Aquasonic 100 gel formula is hypoallergenic, bacteriostatic, non-sensitizing and non-irritating. Recommended for all veterinary procedures where a viscous gel is required. Comes in both a clear or blue color, Purchase it online today!