How to care & protect your Ultrasound Probes

In the exact same way that cells form tissue, tissue forms organs and organs give us a body, in the mechanic world we have a similar pattern. From metal, or any other material, to screws, to parts, to bigger parts that are tied organically together create systems that form: A machine!

An ultrasound probe might just be a part of your Ultrasound System, but it is an extremely sensitive and important one. One that needs the protection, the care and caution, that any other sensitive machine or part would require. A part that could cost you from $4,000 to $6,000.

There are different types of Probes depending mainly on their shape. Each one has a different clinical specialty and can be used for numerous kinds of tests. The most popular types are:

Linear probes

They have a flat array, higher frequency and are used for the scanning of small parts and shallow structures near the surface. They produce a square or rectangular image.

Convex probes

Also known as curved linear probes. Its curvature allows a wider field of view and at a lower frequency. Given their wider depth and deeper penetration, they are commonly used for abdominal scans.

Endocavitary probes

With a longer probe handle and a U shape array, they are used for internal rectal or vaginal scans. Endocavitary probes do not have a great range of depth but their morphology allows them to operate in a wider field than even the convex probes.

Transesophageal (TEE) probes

They are cardiac type probes and provide images of the heart and the arteries that lead to it. They are inserted through the esophagus into the patients’ stomach. They move in four different directions and their movement is steered by handle controls.

3D/4D

3D probes function the same as the 2D with the addition of having a moving array. The array inside the probe moves in a sweeping motion and captures slices of images from different sides. The captured slices are then put together and can produce a 3D still image, or a 4D live image.

By identifying correctly and immediately any possible damages or defects, you can extend the lifespan of your Ultrasound Probes; and by properly protecting and handling them, you can save money.

 Here are some useful tips and information about Ultrasound Probes:

 Detecting Damages and Defects

Crack in Housing of the Probe: This is likely due to the probe being dropped or hit by another object.

Dried-out Lens: This might be caused by the use of a not suitable disinfection for your transducer lenses. This usually occurs when cleaning the probe with fluids containing alcohol. Use proper gel instead.

Crack in the Ultrasound Probe: This type of crack creates noise in the picture, a missing connection, or lines in the image. A common reason for the noise in the scan is a hole in the lens, possibly caused by a hit by another object, by falling on the floor, wear and tear of the wires, or a cut of the wire by a sharp object.

Damaged Crystal in the Probe: It reflects dead, damaged, or weak crystals. Either the probe was dropped on the floor, or the lens was hit by another object.

Broken Ultrasound Probe Cable: This can cause noise in an image, missing connections, or lines in the image. Most likely, a cart or system ran over the cable, causing wear and tear in the wires. Getting hit, or exposed to pressure over an extended period, can also cause the wires to become stacked together.

Protecting and Preventing

Non-traditional users & trained staff: Professional sonographers are trained and able to handle with the necessary care this kind of machines. However, as more and more non-traditional users work with this type of equipment, make sure that they are properly and fully trained.

Thorough and frequent inspections: Inspect your probes regularly to find any possible damages (checking for possible cuts or cracks is very important). Correctly identify the damages and repair them as soon as possible.

Follow the rules: Every probe comes with a set of instructions that must be applied. Follow instructions and don’t underestimate even the ones that might seem trivial. Consider everything, even factors like ventilation or soak times.

Follow the manufacturer’s rules: Treat your probes the way their manufacturer intended. In some cases, is possible that different companies might recommend different disinfectant products or control protocols.