Mides presented a procedure for the analysis and repair of ultrasound probes at the annual meeting of ultrasound companies from Austria, Germany and Switzerland on 14-17 October in Salzburg.
With the Firstcall system, the analysis of the probe is quick, effective and easy to evaluate, according to the company.
In this way, Mides provides constant information about the condition of the probes used.
Medical safety is increased and the system provides a decision-making aid when acquiring new equipment.
The full functionality of an ultrasound head depends on various factors such as type, period of use, handling and maintenance.
The average useful life of a standard probe (which is used on the surface of the body) is five to seven years; with a transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) probe (also called a cardiological 'swallowing probe'), this period is only one-and-a-half to two years.
Leaky coatings, damage to the anti-kink protection and casing and bite damage or defective cable insulation can lead to the failure of piezo crystals and, therefore, the imaging.
Until a few years ago, there was no alternative but for manufacturers to replace defective probes with new ones, according to Mides.
However, if the probe is repaired, the customer can save 70 per cent compared to buying a new one.
In modern laboratory facilities, the probes are repaired and tested using the Firstcall analysis system.
A live test on an ultrasound testing device then checks whether the probes are 100 per cent functional.
After a final examination has been carried out and a test certificate, test report and guarantee have been drawn up, the probe is once again ready for use and is sent back to the customer.
