GE HealthCare Introduces the bkActiv S Series, Advancing Ultrasound Imaging for Non-Surgical Urology, Colorectal, and Pelvic Floor Procedures
GE HealthCare (Nasdaq: GEHC), a global leader in precision care, has announced the launch of the bkActiv™ S series, a next-generation intraoperative ultrasound system designed to redefine the standard of care in minimally invasive urology, colorectal, and pelvic floor interventions. The introduction of the bkActiv S series expands GE HealthCare’s bkPortfolio™ of Active Imaging systems, reinforcing the company’s commitment to enhancing surgical precision and improving clinical outcomes through advanced imaging solutions.
The bkActiv S series is purpose-built to support clinicians performing diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in sensitive anatomical regions where clarity, accuracy, and real-time guidance are critical. The new system integrates the latest ultrasound innovations, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven automation, and an ergonomically designed user interface to enable faster decision-making, better procedural workflows, and ultimately, improved outcomes for patients.
Precision Imaging Designed for Clinical Confidence
At the heart of the bkActiv S series is a powerful imaging engine that delivers exceptional image clarity and contrast, allowing clinicians to visualize fine anatomical details that are essential for accurate diagnosis and effective intervention. Designed for use across a wide spectrum of applications—from prostate diagnostics and biopsy guidance to pelvic floor muscle evaluation—the system empowers surgeons and interventionalists to work with heightened confidence in the operating room or outpatient setting.
The system’s enhanced image quality stems from a combination of hardware innovation and intelligent software. Among its many features is the TruFocus™ algorithm, part of the broader PRISM™ Technology suite, which automatically optimizes imaging parameters to deliver high-definition visuals with minimal user intervention. In parallel, the Adaptive Noise Suppression capability reduces background noise while preserving critical anatomical details, facilitating deeper visualization and a clearer field of view even in challenging imaging scenarios.
Such advancements are especially significant for procedures that rely heavily on precision and accuracy, such as transrectal and transperineal prostate biopsies. In these cases, the ability to clearly delineate anatomical structures—including the prostate gland, urethra, and surrounding tissues—can dramatically influence the efficacy and safety of the procedure.
Empowering Clinicians with Advanced Tools and AI Integration
Beyond superior imaging performance, the bkActiv S series features Prostate Volume Assist (PVA), a cutting-edge AI-driven application that streamlines the clinical workflow by automating prostate volume measurements. With a single click, PVA enables clinicians to generate accurate, reproducible volume calculations, significantly reducing the manual effort and variability associated with traditional techniques.
This AI-enabled functionality not only helps save time during procedures but also enhances the consistency of results—an important factor in longitudinal patient monitoring and treatment planning. As prostate health remains a focal point in men’s health, particularly in the context of early cancer detection and targeted therapy, tools like PVA can play a pivotal role in improving diagnostic confidence and operational efficiency.
In addition to AI integration, the system includes an Image Compare mode, a feature that allows clinicians to display a previously captured image side-by-side with a real-time ultrasound scan. This side-by-side comparison helps inform intraoperative decision-making by enabling real-time assessments of anatomical changes, treatment effects, or procedural accuracy.
Designed for User-Centric Efficiency
GE HealthCare has engineered the bkActiv S series with clinician usability as a core priority. The system features a sleek, modern touch interface with TruSense™ technology, which provides a highly intuitive and responsive user experience. The interface is fully customizable, allowing users to tailor the layout and functionality based on their workflow preferences and clinical requirements.
The Smart Button™ transducer technology is another standout feature that reflects the system’s commitment to ergonomic design and hands-free control. With programmable functions embedded directly into the transducer, clinicians can adjust imaging settings, capture images, and execute commands with one hand—helping maintain focus on the patient and procedure while enhancing procedural sterility and efficiency.
Transducers in the bkActiv S series are optimized for both superficial and deep-tissue imaging, offering a wide selection of high-performance probes tailored for various interventional and diagnostic needs. This level of flexibility supports comprehensive ultrasound assessments across diverse patient anatomies and clinical contexts.
Supporting a Broad Range of Applications
According to Matthijs Groot Wassink, General Manager of Surgical Innovations at GE HealthCare, the bkActiv S series represents a strategic milestone in the evolution of surgical ultrasound:
At GE HealthCare, our Surgical Visualization and Guidance team is committed to advancing technologies that make a significant difference in the surgical environment and meet the evolving needs of our customers. The bkActiv S system will help support clinicians across a wide range of procedures—including prostate diagnostics, biopsy, and treatment guidance—and reflects our focus on helping navigate increasingly complex surgical procedures with greater precision.”
As modern healthcare increasingly shifts toward minimally invasive, outpatient, and non-surgical interventions, the demand for high-quality intraoperative imaging has never been greater. Whether used in ambulatory surgical centers or major hospital operating suites, the bkActiv S series is designed to adapt to a wide range of clinical settings—enabling healthcare providers to deliver better care at a lower procedural burden to patients.
Commitment to Innovation and Global Accessibility
The launch of the bkActiv S series reflects GE HealthCare’s broader vision of precision care—a healthcare paradigm that emphasizes personalization, data-driven decision-making, and smarter use of technology to improve outcomes across the care continuum.
While the bkActiv S series will initially be available in selected markets, GE HealthCare is actively working to expand access globally. The company recommends contacting a local GE HealthCare representative for detailed information regarding regional availability and product specifications. Not all features or accessories may be available in every market, and regulatory clearance may vary by region.
A New Standard for Surgical Ultrasound
In summary, the bkActiv S series sets a new benchmark for intraoperative ultrasound systems, offering a unique combination of high-fidelity imaging, intelligent automation, and clinician-centric design. It is a powerful addition to the bkPortfolio, a family of Active Imaging solutions developed to address the growing GE HealthCare demand for precise, adaptable, and efficient surgical guidance tools.
With the integration of AI-driven workflows, customizable touch-screen controls, and state-of-the-art imaging capabilities, the bkActiv S series is poised to become an essential asset in the hands of today’s urologists, colorectal surgeons, and pelvic floor specialists—supporting them in their mission to deliver accurate diagnoses and minimally invasive treatments with confidence.
For more details about the bkActiv S series and the full bkPortfolio, visit GE HealthCare’s official site or reach out to your regional representative.
