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Probe Safety
only when the maximum combination of control settings is selected. Most
settings result in a much lower output. It is important to note the following:
Probe Selection
As long as the appropriate application is available, any probe can be used
with the knowledge that the intensities fall at, or below, those stated in the
Acoustic Output Data Tables. The duration of patient exposure is most likely
minimized with the use of a probe that is optimized to provide resolution
and focal depth, appropriate to the examination.
Application Selection
Selecting the probe and application preset appropriate for a particular ultra-
sound examination automatically provides acoustic output limits within
FDA guidelines for that application. Other parameters that optimize perfor-
mance for the selected application are also set automatically and should as-
sist in reducing the patient exposure time.
Changing Imaging modes
Acoustic output depends on the imaging mode selected, which determines
whether the ultrasound beam is stationary or in motion. This greatly affects
the energy absorbed by the tissue.
When operating in a combined mode, the total acoustic output comprises
contributions from each individual mode. Depending on the modes in use,
either or both output indices may be affected.
The user can override the default settings, but care should be taken to ob-
serve the displayed MI and TI values.
Power
It is possible to change the power in all operating modes so that the opera-
tor can adhere to the ALARA principle.
2.8
Probe Safety
This section includes information on hazards to both the user and the equip-
ment.
Rev 1.00
The duration of an ultrasound examination is just as important as the
acoustic output, since patient exposure is directly related to the expo-
sure time.
Better image quality yields faster clinical results, making it possible to
complete the relevant ultrasound examination more rapidly. Therefore,
any control that improves the quality of the examination can help re-
duce patient exposure, even though it may not directly affect acoustic
output.
Chapter 2 - Safety
21
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