BTG ICEfx - During Use; Thawing

1-8 User Manual
1.7.3 During Use
• Use image guidance to monitor needle insertion, iceball formation, needle positioning, and
removal.
• Use Freeze and Thaw operations only when the needle is placed in the target tissue.
• Failure to operate the ICEfx Cryoablation System within the working pressure limits indicated on
the user interface (Table 3-2) may a󰀨ect the cryoablation procedure.
• Needle handles and the gas line may frost during freezing. Avoid prolonged contact with frosted
portions of a needle handle to avoid unintended thermal tissue damage to the patient or clinician.
• Position the ICEfx Cryoablation System in a manner to avoid draping needle tubing across
the patient. Needle tubing may become extremely cold when conducting freeze cycles during
a cryoablation procedure. It is important that a patient’s skin is protected from direct contact
with needle tubing to avoid the potential for thermal injury to the patient. Ensure an appropriate
insulating barrier is placed as needed (such as towels) or other method is employed to prevent
needle tubing from touching a patient’s skin.
• Take precautions to avoid potential electrostatic discharge. If an electrostatic discharge occurs
after touching the monitor, the screen may icker and MTS temperature readings may be
inaccurate for a few seconds. The system will remain functional and the monitor will refresh
momentarily.
1.7.3.1 Thawing
For CX needles:
• Active thawing produces heat along the distal needle shaft. Use care to avoid thermal injury to
non-targeted tissues.
• Track ablation produces heat along the distal needle shaft and may warm the needle handle.
Use care to avoid thermal injury to non-targeted tissues. When conducting FastThaw or when
conducting Cautery for Track Ablation, be alert for the Active Zone Indicator as the needle is
withdrawn to prevent unintended tissue damage from the hot needle.
• If a needle appears to be blocked, press the Thaw button to thaw the needle for at least one
minute to clear the blockage.
For non-CX needles:
• If a needle without CX functionality is connected to the ICEfx System, active thawing is not
possible. Needle release from an iceball will only be achievable with passive thaw. Use image
guidance to ensure adequate thawing.
• If a needle without CX functionality appears to be blocked, wait for any formed ice to passively
thaw. Do not use the needle. Use a new needle to continue the procedure.