An ultrasonic imaging catheter is disclosed that includes a thermistor mounted
on the catheter in the vicinity of the ultrasound transducer for monitoring the
temperature in the vicinity thereof. The electrical signal from the thermistor
can be used to control the output of the ultrasound transducer to thereby control
the temperature of the same. In a further aspect of the invention, an isolation
box is provided that is external to the ultrasound machine itself and is connected
to the same by a cable. Ideally, the isolation box which houses a sufficient number
of isolation transformers, is small, so it can be placed easily on or near the
patient's bed.
