With unit shipments exceeding 6,000 systems annually, Esaote is today one of the most dynamic ultrasound manufacturers in the world. Corporate commitment to continuous innovation in ultrasound technology has given Esaote the opportunity to introduce significant new diagnostic capabilities to the clinical community and to offer a full range of ultrasound products, from cost effective systems that provide the best value in the market, to sophisticated units dedicated to contrast agent enhanced ultrasound scanning.

The new products are based on state-of-the-art digital platforms that provide exceptional resolution in both morphologic and functional (perfusion) studies. They feature highly sophisticated technologies, ranging from contrast processing, connectivity and Very High Frequency Sonography (VHFS), to interventional ultrasound and Contrast Tuned Imaging (CnTI™), the technology developed by Esaote to optimize the use of second generation ultrasound contrast agents. State-of-the-art technology and design solutions in Esaote's most sophisticated systems rank them in a class of their own and provide superb image quality.

Furthermore, the new modular systems have compact profiles to ensure unmatched portability and include such innovative features as tilting LCD monitors. Exceptional diagnostic performance and unequaled maneuverability allow them to be used in nearly unlimited hospital applications (e.g., cardiology departments and laboratories, bedside examinations, ICUs, CCUs, surgery rooms and emergency departments). And they are ideally adapted for the mobile service and medical group practice ultrasound market segments.

A key example of Esaote's commitment to innovation and to providing new solutions for unmet clinical needs is the introduction of EsaTune, the first and only diagnostic ultrasound system specifically designed and dedicated to contrast enhanced ultrasound imaging. Through EsaTune, Esaote is providing a new tool to hospitals and clinics for better and faster diagnosis with particular focus on oncology patients.

Esaote's activity in ultrasound involves two business units: one within the parent company Esaote S.p.A. in Genoa and Florence (Italy) and one at its subsidiary Pie Medical in Maastricht (Holland). Though these two business units focus on different target customers, they share both technological know-how and a common, coordinated Esaote Group distribution network.

As part of its ongoing effort to expand the frontiers of ultrasound technology, the Group is active on a number of research fronts, including the exciting new diagnostic possibilities arising from the use of ultrasound in conjunction with dedicated contrast media. This research and development, which has being conducted jointly with Bracco research laboratories, promises to expand the medical application of ultrasound to physiological diagnosis and monitoring of interventional therapeutic procedures. Together with Bracco, Esaote is also involved in exploring other promising new applications of ultrasound dedicated to solving crucial medical needs, where the key solution is based on comprehensive and integrated management of clinical procedures, from diagnosis of disease, to planning and managing patient treatment through 3D ultrasound, telediagnosis, and the full use of digital technology.