Reprocessing ultrasound probes used in percutaneous procedures

Critical Summary:

• Percutaneous procedures are a common and diverse group of medical interventions

• These procedures often utilize ultrasound to guide the needle and increase first attempt success rates

• The level of disinfection required for ultrasound probes used in percutaneous procedures varies depending on the type of tissue that the probe contacts

• A number of factors can increase the risk of contact between the probe and sterile tissue, such as the technique used or anatomy of the patient

• Clinicians performing percutaneous procedures must be aware of these complexities and ensure that ultrasound probes have received the appropriate level of disinfection based on the Spaulding Classification