Workflow Controls

The Power button is used to turn the ultrasound machine on and off and, on some systems, to switch it to stand-by mode. Its proper use is important not only for the longevity of the device, but also for software stability and safe data storage. On many devices, a short press of the button activates sleep mode, while a longer press performs a complete system shutdown. Before turning off the device, it is therefore always advisable to verify that all examinations and images have been properly saved.

The Probes button is used for selecting and switching between ultrasound probes connected to the device. When pressed, a menu of available probes appears, from which the currently attached probe or the desired probe for a given examination can be selected. Choosing the correct probe is essential for optimal image quality and proper device configuration, as selecting a probe typically triggers an automatic adjustment of key imaging parameters, such as frequency, imaging depth, and preset examination mode. It is therefore not merely a technical step, but an important part of the examination that significantly influences the resulting image quality and diagnostic accuracy.

The Freeze button is used to instantly freeze the live ultrasound image, enabling detailed assessment of the displayed structure, precise measurements, image saving, and documentation without disruptive motion artifacts. In practice, it is indispensable when evaluating tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joint structures, where fine details of echotexture need to be captured at a specific moment. It is also worth noting that when not actively scanning, it is advisable to freeze the image, as this reduces the load on the piezoelectric crystals within the probe, which may contribute to extending its service life.

The Store button is used to save the currently displayed frozen ultrasound image to the device's internal memory. Saved images can subsequently be used for examination documentation, comparison of findings over time, or for their export to the hospital information system. Saving high-quality, correctly adjusted images is the foundation of good ultrasound documentation, as it enables retrospective evaluation of findings, their sharing, and objective monitoring of changes over time.

The Clip button allows you to record a short dynamic sequence from a live ultrasound image. This mode is particularly useful when evaluating structural movement, such as monitoring tendon displacement, muscle contraction, joint motion, or fluid shift. Video clips therefore provide valuable information that cannot be captured in a static image, making them especially relevant during dynamic musculoskeletal examination, where it is important to assess not only the morphology but also the function of the examined area.

The Print button is used for immediate printing of the current image or the entire screen to a connected printer. It is used primarily in situations where a printed form of documentation is required for the patient, medical record, or other administrative purposes. Although digital archiving is now standard in most workplaces, quick printing can still be practical and useful in certain situations.