Clinical efficacy of Kitecko ultrasonic conductor

A homogeneous synthetic polymer block (Kitecko) was evaluated for ultrasound imaging of small parts, superficial structures, and the pediatric patient. The block is intended to be used as an offset and replaces the traditional way of scanning with water paths, fluid-filled surgical gloves or IV bags. A randomized paired comparison of the Kitecko pad conductor and a water path system (IV bag) was performed. One hundred pediatric and adult patients were scanned using both conductors. The images were encoded and subsequently evaluated for image quality, including artifact, attenuation, resolution, and distortion. A statistical analysis showed significantly higher scores (P less than .01) with the Kitecko substance when compared to water path scanning when evaluating for reverberation artifact, scatter artifact, and spatial resolution.