Extend Its Lifespan and Ensure Optimal Performance
Maintaining your electrosurgical generator, like the Bovie, is crucial to ensuring optimal performance and prolonging the life of the device. Whether you’re a veterinarian or a technician, proper care of your medical equipment guarantees safety for your patients and peace of mind for your team. In this article, we outline the key steps to properly maintain your Bovie generator, as well as accessories such as the ESPR2 Electrosurgical Hand Pencil and reusable electrodes.
Why is maintaining your Bovie so important?
A well-maintained electrosurgical device not only delivers reliable performance but also reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns during procedures. By taking care of your Bovie and its accessories, you minimize downtime and repair costs, while ensuring safer procedures for your patients. Regular maintenance is the key to extending your device’s lifespan and ensuring continued use in optimal conditions.
Cleaning after each use: the first essential step
After each use, it is crucial to thoroughly clean your Bovie generator to avoid the buildup of dust and contaminants that could affect its performance.
Cleaning steps:
- Turn off and unplug the device: Before handling, make sure the generator is powered off and the power cord is unplugged to avoid any risk of electric shock.
- Wipe down surfaces: Use a damp cloth with a mild detergent or appropriate disinfectant. Always follow your institution’s infection control guidelines.
- Be cautious with liquids: Never let liquids seep into the device, as this could cause irreparable damage.
- Avoid abrasive products: Never clean the device with abrasive cleaners or strong solvents, as they could scratch the Bovie’s surfaces and shorten its lifespan.
By following these simple steps after each use, you not only protect your investment but also ensure that the device is ready for the next procedure in perfect working order.
Bovie accessories: Cleaning and sterilization instructions
Bovie accessories, such as electrosurgical pencils and reusable electrodes, also require proper care to ensure their performance and extend their lifespan.
1) ESPR2 Electrosurgical Hand Pencil
Cleaning instructions:
- Remove any visible matter (blood, tissue) by wiping the pencil with a gauze pad or soft cloth dampened with warm tap water until all debris is removed.
- Wipe the pencil with a gauze pad or soft cloth dampened in an enzymatic detergent mixture diluted according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Remove cleaning agents by wiping the pencil with a cloth dampened with tap water.
- Thoroughly dry the pencil.
Sterilization instructions:
Number of uses after steam autoclave sterilization: 100
- Steam autoclave at 121°C (250°F; gravity) for 20 minutes using an autoclave pouch or the wrapped cloth method. Consult AAMI’s recommended practice for steam sterilization using the wrapped cloth method. Allow the product to cool for at least 30 minutes before use.
- The flash autoclave method is not recommended, as it may damage the pencil.
2) Reusable Electrodes
Cleaning instructions:
- Remove any visible matter (blood, tissue) by wiping the electrode with a gauze pad or soft cloth dampened with warm tap water until all debris is removed.
- Soak the electrode in an enzymatic detergent mixture diluted according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Electrodes can also be cleaned using a soft-bristled brush to remove visible debris.
- Remove cleaning agents by wiping the electrode with a cloth dampened with tap water.
- Thoroughly dry the electrode.
Sterilization instructions:
Number of uses after steam autoclave sterilization: 5 uses for loop electrodes (ES04R, ES06R, ES07R, ES03R) and 25 uses for all other electrodes.
- Steam autoclave at 121°C (250°F; gravity) for 30 minutes using an autoclave pouch or the wrapped cloth method. Consult AAMI’s recommended practice for steam sterilization using the wrapped cloth method. Allow the product to cool for at least 30 minutes.
- The flash autoclave method is not recommended, as it may damage the electrode.
Periodic inspection: a step not to be missed
Every six months, it is recommended to conduct a visual inspection of the Bovie generator. Here are some key areas to check:
- Power cord: Check for any signs of deterioration, such as cracks or tears.
- Connectors: Ensure that the input and output connectors are not damaged.
- Debris accumulation: Inspect areas around the generator to check for any accumulation of fibers or waste that could interfere with its proper functioning.
Fuse replacement: a simple procedure to master
Fuses play a crucial role in the operation of the generator. If your Bovie fails to turn on or if no error appears on the screen, it’s possible that the fuses need to be replaced. Here’s how to do it:
- Turn off and unplug the device: Remove the power cord from the wall outlet and from the input connector located at the rear of the device.
- Access the fuse holder: Use a small screwdriver to open the fuse holder located beneath the power cord input connector.
- Replace the fuses: Remove the fuses (T3.15AL250V) and replace them with new fuses of the same specifications.
- Close and test: Reinsert the fuse holder, plug in the device, and check for proper operation.
Conclusion: Maintaining your Bovie for more safety and reliability
By following these maintenance steps and performing regular inspections, you ensure a long lifespan for your Bovie generator and optimal daily performance. A well-maintained device is a reliable device, guaranteeing the safety of your patients and the success of your procedures.
Do you have a question or need help with maintaining your Bovie? Contact our team today for personalized advice or for any technical questions. We’re here to support you at every step and ensure your equipment always operates at its best.
