General Features
Siemens ultrasound transducers offer features to improve clinical workflow and enhance patient care. Here are some general features of these probes:
1. Gesture-Detecting Technology
Simens transducers can be activated for scanning with a double tap. Using this technology you will not have to manually activate the probe, and it reduces the need for repetitive motions.
2. Soft Touch Acoustic Lens
A soft touch acoustic lens keeps the patient comfortable during ultrasound examination. It reduces discomfort and anxiety, especially in pediatric and elderly patients.
3. Improved Image Quality
Siemens transducers come with Multi-D technology that forms focused images of specific regions with improved clarity and detail. These probes use signal processing algorithms to reduce noise and artifacts that further improve image quality. They can precisely visualize small structures and fine details.
4. Deeper Penetration
Advanced Multi-D technology enables deeper penetration of sound waves into tissues and structures to form clearer images. This technology helps in visualizing structures that were previously inaccessible. This feature is particularly beneficial for patients with higher BMI.
5. Single-Crystal Piezoelectric Technology
This technology further improves image clarity and provides greater sensitivity for deeper penetration.
6. Contrast Imaging
It helps with improving image contrast by using microbubbles as contrast agents. It can improve visualization of blood flow and tissue fluids to help in better diagnosis and monitoring of various health conditions.
7. Thermal Management
Thermal management technology makes Siemens transducers efficient as they are able to generate maximum sound power while dissipating heat. This feature makes the transducers durable as it allows for deeper penetration without impacting the performance of the probe
8. Wide Bandwidth
A wider bandwidth enables these probes to form clearer and more detailed images as it improves spatial and contrast resolutions.
9. 180° Motorized Crystal Rotation
This feature provides flexibility in imaging planes.
10. Adaptable for Versatile Uses
Siemens offers a range of different transducers that are designed for versatile uses, such as from performing routine exams to diagnosing complex health conditions.
11. Consistent Results
These ultrasound transducers eliminate the need for repetitive exams as they are reliable and accurate with the results.
12. Easy to Clean
Simens give a comprehensive guide on cleaning their probes. You can find out the key points in the coming sections on this page.
13. Long Lasting
Thermal management technology increases the lifespan of these probes by maintaining their functionality.
14. Advanced Imaging
These probes come with advanced imaging capabilities, such as 3D and 4D imaging.
Design Attributes of Siemens Transducers
Siemens probes come with different design attributes. Some of them include:
- User-Selectable Multiple Frequency Imaging - This helps healthcare professionals to perform specific diagnosis with improved accuracy and efficiency.
- Ergonomically Designed - Ergonomic designs reduce user fatigue and strain that improves workflow and productivity.
- Lightweight Transducer with Flexible Cable - Makes them easy to use. It improves patient comfort and facilitates their positioning while performing exams.
General Specifications
- Frequency Range: 1 MHz to 21.5 MHz.
- Technology: Gesture-Detection, Multi-D technology, Single-Crystal Piezoelectric, and Thermal management.
- Transducer Types: Linear, curved, endocavity, micro-convex, vector, phased-array, and pencil probes.
- Imaging Depth: Varies depending on frequency and application.
- Design: Ergonomically designed with flexible cables for ease of use.
- Compatibility: Compatible with various Siemens Healthineers ultrasound machine parts.
- Durability: Built in thermal management technology to keep them working well for a long time.
Each type of transducer comes with its own set of specifications and is designed for various applications.
Applications of Siemens Transducers
Siemens ultrasound probes have applications in various medical departments based on their types. Here are some common exams that can be performed using these probes:
- Abdominal Ultrasound: Doctors can visualize abdominal organs, such as the liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, kidneys, and bladder.
- Neonatal Exams: Some of these probes are used to perform ultrasound of a newborn's heart and brain to assess their structure and function.
- OB/GYN: This is one of the most common applications of ultrasound probes. It allows for the examination of the female reproductive organs and baby development.
- Pediatric Exams: Some of the transducers are designed to perform ultrasound examination of a child's abdominal organs, heart, and brain.
- Pelvis ultrasound: Probes are used to examine the pelvic organs including the uterus, ovaries, and bladder.
- Renal imaging: It allows doctors to examine the kidneys.
- Breast examination: Doctors can view breast tissue to detect abnormalities and their overall health.
- Cerebrovascular imaging: Healthcare professionals use this for examination of the blood vessels in the brain and neck.
- Musculoskeletal imaging: Allows doctors to examine muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints.
- Penile: Some of the Siemens probes are designed to perform ultrasound examination of the penis and testicles.
- Thyroid: Some probes are used to perform an examination of the thyroid gland.
- Peripheral Vascular: Doctors can view blood vessels outside the heart and brain.
- Adult Intracardiac Echocardiography: These probes are used to visualize the heart's internal structures in adults.
- Laparoscopic: Doctors can perform ultrasound imaging during minimally invasive surgical procedures.
Guide on Taking Care of Siemens Probes
Do's:
- Always clean transducers with their approved cleaners and disinfectants recommended by Siemens Healthineers.
- Disinfect transducers after every use to maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of infections.
- Thoroughly dry the probes according to the instructions after cleaning them.
- Use a lint-free cloth or clean gauze pad to clean the probes.
- Lightly moisten the wiping material with a recommended detergent, to clean the surface of the probe.
- Make sure to clean any visible residue.
- Always refer to the cleaning instructions provided by Siemens Healthineers.
- Handle transducers with extreme care. You should avoid knocking them against objects.
Don'ts:
- Do not clean probes with chlorinated or aromatic solvents, acidic or basic solutions, or any non-recommended cleaner.
- Avoid sterilizing transducers with cold gas, hot steam, or Ethylene Oxide (EO) methods.
- Do not immerse probes in disinfactant solution for more than an hour.
- Do not use transducers with damaged or cracked parts as it can result in cross-contamination and electrical shock risks.
Types of Siemens Ultrasound Transducers
Linear Transducer - It produces a rectangular image with near-field resolution. This is suitable for superficial structures like the thyroid, muscles, and small vessels.
Curved (Convex) Transducer - It creates images with a wide field of view. This probe is commonly used for abdominal, obstetric, and gynecological exams.
Endocavity Transducer - This is designed to perform internal examinations (vaginal, rectal, or transesophageal). It provides high-resolution images of internal organs.
Micro-Convex Transducer - It is a smaller version of a convex transducer. This probe is used to perform pediatric and neonatal exams.
Vector Transducer - It combines features of linear and curved transducers. Vector probe offers both high-resolution near-field imaging and a wide field of view.
Catheter Transducer - This probe is inserted through a catheter. It has applications in performing intravascular imaging.
Phased-Array Transducer - This probe provides high-resolution real-time images of moving structures.
Pencil Transducer - Used for continuous blood flow measurement and its speed.
Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) Transducer - This probe provides detailed images of the heart. It offers better image quality compared to traditional echocardiography.
Tips on Buying the Best Ultrasound Transducer
Here are some aspects to consider before buying an ultrasound probe:
Identify their applications
Different probes are used for differnet applications. Identify the types of clinical needs you have and choose the probe based on them. For examining superfacial structures, high frequency probes work best. Whereas, low frequency transducers have deeper penetrating power.
Compatibility with the ultrasound systems
Make sure the probe you are buying is compatible with your ultrasound system.
Budget to Consider
While investing in a probe, estimate the overall budget that includes future maintenance costs as well. So, if you invest in a good-quality transducer, you can not only use it for a long time but also avoid frequent maintenance costs.
FAQs
What is an ultrasound probe cover or sheath?
Ultrasound probe sheaths are one-time usable non-pyrogenic covers or barriers that are placed on the probe while performing tests. This sheath prevents cross-contamination and infections.
Can you use a UV device on Siemens transducers for disinfection?
Siemens Healthineers has not tested the disinfection of the transducers using UV devices. We recommend using only approved methods to disinfect the probes.
What does an ultrasound transducer do?
An ultrasound transducer emits and sends out sound waves to the body tissues. Those tissues reflect the sound waves toward the transducer which converts them into electrical signals. An ultrasound machine processes those signals to create an image called sonogram.
What are the most commonly used ultrasound transducers?
Out of many types of ultrasound transducers, the most commonly used are phased array, linear, and convex (standard or micro-convex).
How long does an ultrasound transducer last?
Ultrasound transducers normally last for 5 to 7 years. However, with proper care, they can last even longer.
