Transducer Care Tips from an Ultrasound Tech Expert

In today's blog we are going to examine the care of
transducers/probes/scan heads and get some tips from ultrasound tech
expert, Matt Tomory. Since there are so many different manufacturers
of transducers today, it is expected that the care of each transducer
is going to be different.

Matt suggests that the best place to start is the not even a part of
the transducer itself, but rather, the system it is connected to. Matt
states that "most transducers have over 100 connecting pins that
interface with the transducer interface board on the ultrasound
system." One should "inspect the interface board for bent or broken
pins that may damage a transducer plugged into that particular port.
Next, inspect the transducer connector itself for bent or broken
pins." In either case, Matt states "to remedy any issues or remove the
transducer from service immediately as these mechanical failures will
spread to other transducers and systems as they are moved around."

Next, "take a look at the method of cleaning and disinfection used by
the department. Are they cleaning the transducers at all? Does the
solution they use for disinfection have alcohol as a main ingredient?"
As stated previously, all transducers are different. Some of the
trasnducers are capable of being cleaned with alcohol while other
transducers should not be cleaned with any use of alcohol. According
to Matt, "even with the same system, due to transducers being
manufactured in different locations, you may have different care
instructions for the various transducers on that system." It is
imperative that you check the manufacturers' guidelines for approved
methods and solutions.

Next you will need to inspect the endo-cavity and transesophageal
transducer. Matt suggest to check to see if "the department uses a
manufacturer-approved disinfecting solution" and if they are
"following the manufacturer' recommendations as far as what parts can
be submerged and how far?" Be sure you check to see if they are
following "the guidelines of the solution manufacturer" in regards to
the process and soak times. Matt says that "too often [he] [has] seen
probes soaking well beyond recommended periods which will damage
them." Also be sure to check and see if they are inspecting them for
integrity breaches prior to soaking. This is very important since
"disinfection solution intrusion will render a transducer
unrepairable."

Last but not least you should take a look at how the transducers are
stored and handled. Matt suggests that you should then check to see if
the transducers are "exposed to sharp objects, coiled up tightly, or
lying on top of the system." You may want to re-think how the probes
are stored. According to Matt an easy fix is "lacing a mat or throw
rug under the system so if a transducer is dropped, it will impact a
soft surface."

If cared for properly, your ultrasound transducer should have a long
life span. However, it is imperative that you treat them with care
and follow the specific manufacturer's guidelines for disinfecting.