TEE Transducers
HD11 XE Getting Started
4535 612 62651
10
226
•Minimize the possibility of pressure necrosis (tissue death).
Do not let the distal tip displace any one segment of tissue for more than 5
consecutive minutes. Also make sure the deflection area and the distal tip are
in the position of least potential pressure. Be sure that the transducer is in a
freewheeling mode and is unplugged whenever you are not imaging.
1
• Prevent potential esophageal damage.
Philips recommends that you stop TEE scanning and unplug the transducer
from the system during periods of poor perfusion, circulatory arrest, or the
hypothermic phase of open heart surgery. To discontinue scanning, unlock the
transducer connector according to the instructions in “Connecting Transduc-
ers” on page 150.
• Before each TEE exam, carefully inspect the transducer, as described in
“Checking the TEE Transducer” on page 218.
A thorough inspection procedure is required for the safety of the patient and
yourself, and to ensure the continued correct functioning of the transducer.
• Never use excessive force when inserting, operating, or withdrawing a trans-
ducer, and make sure the deflection area is straight during insertion and with-
drawal.
Forceful insertion, manipulation, or withdrawal of a transducer can result in
lacerations, bleeding, perforation, tearing of adhesions, and ligament damage.
Also be aware that the tip can fold over, causing similar damage. See the next
section, “Tip Fold-Over” on page 227.
• Refrain from handling the distal tip whenever possible.
If you must handle the distal tip, grasp it on the sides. Do not touch the top or
bottom. Support the transducer’s proximal head, either by having an assistant
hold the steering mechanism or by clamping the transducer at the steering
mechanism. However, be sure that the clamp does not interfere with steering,
and do not clamp any part of the flexible shaft, because this will damage the
transducer.
1. Urbanowitz, John H. et al. “Transesophageal Echocardiography and Its Potential for Esoph-
ageal Damage.” Anesthesiology, Vol. 72, No. 1, 1990.
To Next Page
Loading...