Transducer Care and Specifications

What are the different levels of transducer disinfection?

Non-critical devices (Transducers used in non-invasive procedures) have a very low probability for spreading infection since they are used on intact skin. This type of device requires only general cleaning.

Semi-critical devices (Transducers used in endocavity and TEE procedures). Since materials in transducers prevent them from being considered a heat-stable device, cleaning and high-level disinfection is the accepted method of infection control for these devices. Philips recommends that you use a protective sheath with transducers used in endocavity procedures and with all TEE transducers.

Critical devices (Transducers used in biopsy and intraoperative procedures) contacting blood, or compromised tissue, or devices used in a sterile field are classified in the critical device category. Transducers used in critical applications require cleaning, high-level disinfections, and the use of a sterile protective sheath.

See Cleaning for specific instructions.

Can I use bleach?

Transducers should not be soaked in bleach, even in solutions that are diluted. Soaking a transducer in bleach will cause lens delamination as well as material degradation. Wiping transducers used in non-invasive procedures with a 10% bleach solution is acceptable. See General Cleaning.

Can I use isopropyl alcohol?

The use of 70% isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) on transducers used in non-invasive procedures is restricted. You may wipe only the distal tip of the transducer up to one inch (2.5 cm) from the strain relief/housing joint with an isopropyl alcohol solution. For TEE transducers, you may wipe the handle and steering mechanism with a pad moistened with isopropyl alcohol. See TEE cleaning.

How long do I soak the transducers that need high-level disinfection?

Limit the time that probes are soaked in disinfectant solution to the minimum time recommended by the disinfectant manufacturer.

Can I use heat to sterilize transducers?

Materials in transducers prevent them from being considered a heat stable device. Never sterilize the transducer with sterilization techniques such as autoclave, ultraviolet, gamma radiation, gas, steam or heat sterilization techniques. Severe damage will result.

Can I store the TEE Transducer in the carrying case?

Never store a TEE transducer in the carrying case, except to transport it. Store the transducer on a securely mounted wall rack, with slots properly spaced to prevent the transducer from falling.

Can I use a non-glutarldehyde-based disinfectant on transducers?

See non-glutaraldehyde-based disinfectant section for detailed information.

What precautions should be taken when using a biopsy needle guide and bracket?

Always follow these basic precautions when using a biopsy needle guide and bracket:

• All biopsy procedures must be performed using highly controlled sterile procedures. Be sure that the biopsy needle package is not opened or damaged and that the date has not expired.
• Before performing the biopsy setup for the first time, it is strongly recommended that you familiarize yourself with each possible needle position, procedure, transducer, and screen display. See the EnVisor Series Help system for information on the EnVisor biopsy feature.
• Before using the biopsy setup for the first time, it is strongly recommended that you familiarize yourself with each possible needle position, procedure, transducer, and screen display.
• Most needle guides are shipped sterile. Verify on the package that the guide is sterile.
• For most transducers, before inserting the biopsy needle, ensure that the needle guide is on the same side as the orientation rib on the transducer handle. For transducers that do not have an orientation rib, such as the C8-4v, the biopsy needle bracket can attach to the transducer only in the correct orientation. For the L12-5 50 (Model 989803002251), you can attach the needle guide on either side of the transducer.
• Use a sterile protective sheath and sterile ultrasound transmission gel with the biopsy needle.
• Most needle guides are disposable. Do not reuse disposable needle guides. After use, remove the needle guide from the bracket and discard the needle guide.
• Most biopsy brackets are not shipped sterile. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to disinfect the biopsy bracket.

What are the recommended guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting transducers used in biopsy procedures?

See section titled Cleaning and Disinfecting Transducers Used in Biopsy Procedures for specific information about cleaning and disinfecting transducers used in biopsy procedures.

What can I use to clean my general transducers? Can I use T-Spray or Sani-Wipes?

See section titled General Cleaning for specific information about using T-Spray^TM. You may not use Sani-Wipes.

Can I fully immerse my transducer in a cleaning solution?

No, never fully immerse your transducer in a cleaning solution. For TEE transducers, only the distal tip and a portion of the flexible shaft may be immersed. For all other transducers, you may wash the transducer head and cable; however, do not rinse or immerse the connector or the portion of the cable near the connector. See  Cleaning and Disinfecting for more information.

Which intraoperatively designed transducers can be immersed in disinfecting solution including the length of the cable?

Transducers that are designed for intraoperative use allow for cable immersion up to (but not including) the strain relief of the connector. See section titled Cleaning and Disinfecting Transducers Used in Intraoperative Procedures for more information.

How can I clean the hand-held handle and controls of the TEE transducers?

Lightly wipe the handle and steering mechanism with a pad moistened with rubbing alcohol (70% isopropyl alcohol).  Hang the transducer on a wall-mounted rack and let it air dry.

Caution: The transducer steering mechanism is not sealed. If disinfectant or other fluid enters the steering mechanism, it will corrode the gears and electrical connections. Avoidable transducer damage is not covered by the warranty or service contract.