Axess Ultrasound has announced it will begin offering probe repair and testing capabilities for the Philips C5-1 and L12-5 probes. Damage to probes frequently requires either major repair or replacement. Repair can help customers avoid costly replacement fees, which can run thousands of dollars.

“Axess Ultrasound has offered testing and repair services on a multitude of complex general imaging and transesohageal echocardiogram probes over the past several years,” said Chris Wright, executive director of Axess Ultrasound. “Through our research and development efforts we were able to identify areas of clinical need and expand our services to include more Philips probes.”

Major or comprehensive repair includes complete array replacement, lens replacement, electronic repairs, full cable assembly, new housing, and re-terminations. Choosing to repair instead of replace the equipment means customers can preserve the item’s history while ensuring it stays compliant.

Axess offers the following tips to ensure accurate testing and complex repairs of ultrasound probes:

  1. Be proactive. Visually inspect your probes regularly.  Catching a probe problem early can save time and money while keeping patients safe.
  2. Utilize a service provider who is able to conduct full testing and repair, including determining the performance of each individual crystal. They should also have the technology and expertise to replace the entire array and/or coax cable assemblies, if necessary. Ensure that they are able to determine the root cause of the problem, and not just address the symptoms of the current malfunction.
  3. Make sure the service provider tracks the serial number of the probe being repaired and maintains all files, testing, live imaging, electrical safety tests, photographs of the probe, etc. in the event specific information regarding the repair is needed.
  4. Check the service provider’s track record. What is their success rate on full repairs and what is their warranty rate (problems after repair)? The success rate should be well over 95% and warranty rate on repairs less than 2%.

For more information, visit Axess Ultrasound.