Butterfly iQ Ultrasound Probe is Compatible with Chronos®

Over the past decade, point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) has increased fourfold as an aid to traditional examination techniques in the diagnosis and management of patients. The invention of these smaller devices with improved picture quality has expanded the use of ultrasound to additional hospital departments. Butterfly iQ’s innovation in providing a faster, easier, and more affordable option to provide patient care with the world’s first one-probe-whole-body portable ultrasound system has made these devices even more popular. 

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Recently, Butterfly iQ announced that their ultrasound probe is compatible with Chronos® for High-Level Disinfection (HLD) — the only chemical-free and ultrafast UV-C High-Level Disinfection technology. Both Chronos® and Butterfly iQ deliver innovative solutions facilitating cost-efficient workflows and improving patient care. Together, they provide an affordable and highly mobile point-of-care ultrasound solution and a faster, simpler, and cleaner HLD system.

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Butterfly iQ and Chronos®: Affordable and Innovative Solutions for a Seamless Workflow

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The Butterfly iQ innovation combines the functions of linear, curvilinear, and phased array probes in one lightweight body. This feature makes it a unique and highly effective solution for POCUS environments. Switching between probes of different frequencies comes with the risk of cross-contamination. That's why the ability to change between ultrasound frequencies via a smartphone or tablet screen is a game changer for patient safety.

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Chronos UV-C high-level disinfection is designed for seamless workflows that combine an extremely fast 90-second cycle time with a simple one-push button process. Not only does this provide a quick turnaround time, but it also simplifies the HLD process and ensures a reproducible disinfection cycle every time that is tracked digitally. These features reduce the possibility of operator error and ensure compliance.

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Chronos’ chemical-free operation also makes it ideal for POCUS and an affordable option as there are no other running costs or added costs in purchasing, storing, or handling consumables. All that is needed is an electrical connection.

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Chronos: Designed for Cleaner High-Level Disinfection

It’s also important to note that UV-C light is non-corrosive to the sensitive plastic polymers found on ultrasound probes and cables, including Butterfly iQ instruments and the full length of the probe cord.  In contrast, harsh chemical methods are corrosive. They can damage probe materials, cause glue disintegration, and result in premature cosmetic wear of the device.

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The chemical-free operation also safeguards staff and patients by avoiding hazardous chemical burns, fumes, and spills. Additionally, no chemical residuals are left on the probe after disinfection. Thus, Chronos provides a safe and environmentally friendly examination room that is ideal for POCUS.

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Probe Compatibility Testing

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Given their size and vulnerability, ultrasound probes are among the most expensive and sensitive pieces of equipment used in medicine. This is why Germitec takes a proactive approach using strict internal procedures to determine the compatibility of Chronos with various types of ultrasound probes and working closely with probe manufacturers across the globe to acquire their approval for its use.

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Contact us to find out if your ultrasound probes are approved for use with Chronos^® and Antigermix^®.