Jan. 18, 2005 — Sensant Corp., a developer of silicon-based ultrasound imaging technology, announced that it has received its first commercial order for its silicon ultrasound imaging probes from Italian imaging systems manufacturer Esaote S.p.A.

The order is for Sensant’s newly developed broadband Silicon Ultrasound array transducer, according to a news release. The transducer will be featured on Esaote ultrasound systems.

Piezoelectric crystal technology is used in conventional ultrasound imaging. Sensant uses a silicon MEMS structure known as a capacitive microfabricated ultrasonic transducer. The company says the use of MEMS technology gives it a superior acoustic response that forms the basis for better medical images.

“Consistent attention to new technologies and innovations is critical to delivering better products to clinicians and care to patients,” said Fabrizio Landi, general manager of Esaote, in a prepared statement. “We’ve been impressed with Sensant’s developments from a very early stage and look forward to offering Silicon Ultrasound technology on our premium ultrasound systems.”