Why test your probes?

A primary reason is that a set of periodic definitive measurements for each transducer can identify degradation in image quality before it affects patient scans.

Ref: Medical Physics, 2012

Probe Testing:

v Quantifies transducer performance

v Lowers transducer cost of ownership

v Differentiates system problems from transducer problems

v Clarifies repair vs. replacement decision making

v Reduces ultrasound service contract risks

v Simplifies replacement planning

v Speeds the ultrasound diagnostic and service process

v Supports ultrasound quality assurance programs

Testing is Used to Determine:

1. Dead elements

2. Weak elements

3. Broken wires

4. Faulty connectors

5. Delaminated Lens

Ultrasound QC -Sound Decision offers several cost-effective ways to improve the quality of your Ultrasound Department:

On-site QC Program

A member of our expert staff of ultrasound QC engineers will come to your location with the equipment needed to objectively test the quality of your ultrasound probes, systems and QC process..

The return on your investment will be evident in 3 key ways:

§ Optimized Clinical Quality
§ Maximum Value of your Service Contract Expense
§ Technical Requirements for Accreditation

Our service is performed in the evening, after your daily clinical schedule is finished to eliminate down time. Our program provides:

§ Complete Acoustic Evaluation

§ Detailed Physical Assessment

§ Electrical Safety Evaluation (TEE Probes)

§ Clinical Performance Testing

§ Certification of Performance

§ Replacement Planning

§ Predictive Maintenance

A complete report is provided with transducers cataloged into 3 distinct groups:

- Certified - the probes are operating correctly

- Observations - an issue but it is not yet affecting clinical outcomes or patient safety.

- Findings - an issue that is affecting clinical outcomes or patient safety.

The ACR recommends that QC testing be done at least twice each year.

"Ultrasound Accreditation Program Requirements" ACR, Revised 6/20/06

System Preventative Maintenance Programs

Quality and up-time can be combined in a preventative maintenance program that includes on-site system performance testing and probe testing. Our on-site PM Service is designed to fulfill the requirements for ACR, AIUM, ICAVL and ICAEL accreditation.

Our PM program follows the scheduled maintenance proceduresrecommended by respective equipment manufacturers and industry standards. Documentation protocols regarding maintenance procedures are in compliance with all regulatory agency requirements including:

§ Joint Commission on the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO)

§ American College Radiology

§ AIUM

§Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC)

as well as all other federal, state and local agencies.

Meet the Cost-control Challenges by:

§ Dealing with the headaches and costs of regulations

§ Reducing expense in equipment purchase and maintenance

§ Preventing costly lawsuits

Ensure Clinical Excellence by:

§ Maximizing effectiveness of new equipment

§ Balancing faster and more detailed imaging for optimal image quality

§ Continuous Quality Improvement