Checking The Tee Transducer; Tee Transducer Inspection; Tee Transducer Controls Inspection; Special Considerations For Tee Studies - Philips EPIQ 7 User Manual

Checking the TEE Transducer

Transesophageal Transducers
Checking the TEE Transducer
Before each TEE exam, carefully inspect the transducer and try the controls, as described in the
subordinate topics.

TEE Transducer Inspection

Carefully inspect the entire surface of the distal tip and flexible shaft for protrusions, holes,
dents, abrasions, cuts, burrs, or cracks that could be extremely hazardous to both you and your
patient.
Carefully feel the tip and shaft, and inspect the entire transducer. If you suspect an electrical
problem, follow the electrical safety check procedure described in "Electrical Safety Check for
TEE Transducers" in the "Transesophageal Transducers" section of the User Manual.
Also check for excessive flexibility in the tip, particularly in the medial/lateral direction. Do not
use the transducer if the tip is extremely flexible. If you have any questions about tip flexibility,
contact your Philips service representative.

TEE Transducer Controls Inspection

Use the deflection controls to position the tip in every possible direction, both to ensure that
the controls work properly and to get used to the feel of the TEE transducer. Make sure that
the controls operate smoothly without binding, and that you can achieve all possible positions
easily before introducing the TEE transducer into the patient.
Test the detent brakes and freewheeling mode. Remember that the controls must be in
freewheeling mode (no deflection and no brake resistance) when repositioning or withdrawing
the transducer, as well as whenever you are not imaging. See "Manipulating the X7-2t Tip" on
page 213 and "Manipulating the S7-3t TEE Tip" on page 220

Special Considerations for TEE Studies

Special considerations regarding TEE studies are advisable for patients with existing
gastroesophageal abnormalities, such as esophageal varices, hiatal hernia, tumor, diverticula,
esophageal webs and rings, fistulae, or peptic ulcers, as well as for patients who have had anti-
reflux procedures. In addition, you should do the following:
• Consider the patient's size and ability to accommodate the transducer tip and shaft.
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