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Transesophageal Transducers
• 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 unplugged whenever you are not imaging.
• 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.
• Before each TEE study, carefully inspect the transducer, as described in
Transducer" on page
patient and yourself, and to ensure the continued correct functioning of the transducer.
• Never use excessive force when inserting, operating, or withdrawing a transducer, and
make sure the deflection area is straight during insertion and withdrawal. 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.
• 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. Ensure that the clamp does not interfere with
steering, and do not clamp any part of the flexible shaft, as this will damage the transducer.
Tip Fold-Over
On rare occasions, the tip of a TEE transducer has folded over during insertion. The effects can
be serious if the situation is handled incorrectly. The esophagus can be scraped, perforated, or
otherwise damaged.
Recognizing Tip Fold-Over
The TEE transducer tip might be folded over in the patient if you encounter any of the
following:
• Resistance to advancing or removing the transducer
• An inability to turn the control knobs
• Fixation of the control knobs in the maximum flexion position
• Extreme difficulty in obtaining an image
226
223. A thorough inspection procedure is required for the safety of the
Tip Fold-Over
"Checking the TEE
EPIQ 7 User Manual 4535 617 25341
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