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C0103 Asepsis in interventional ultrasound
  1. Raul Albalate Barbero
  1. Fisiovitally Centro Clínico Madrid (Madrid), España

Abstract

Background It is increasingly common the use of ultrasound by physiotherapists. Futher more it use as an aid in the dry needling and Electrolysis is greater. In interventional sonography it is very important to maintain correct aseptic conditions to avoid possible infectious complications. The asepsis required will be different depending the technique used.

Methods We have revised the limited current literature with use of databases such as PubMed or UpToDate and consulting specific books. We also evaluate the asepsis used in different health centres (public hospitals such as H Puerta de Hierro, H Doce de Octubre, Fundación de Alcorcon) and in private physiotherapy clinical centres where these techniques are performed.

Results In interventional ultrasound techniques is very important to keep asepsis conditions as in other surgical procedure. It’s necessary to take extreme precautions to avoid infection or other complications during the use of an ultrasound probe during an intervention. We must disinfect the entire area to explore and use sterile or normal covers (depending on the technique to be performed and the type of patient) to avoid direct contact of the ultrasound probe with the skin of the patient.

In the case of ultrasound-guided infiltrations (direct techniques) or other treatments (pricks)is recommended the use of a chlorhexidine solution with and alcoholic or aqueous base, or iodinated (powerful antiseptic, fast action).

We always must use gloves, better if they are sterile.

In indirect techniques with marking skin before doing the is recommended a conventional aseptic conditions (use of antiseptic on the surface to be treated once marked the point is recommended. We must try to avoid that the puncture site have transmitter gel, unless it is sterile, although it’s preferable if we can avoid it always, to prevent the gel can penetrate inside the body. (although it’s a small amount even if it is sterile).

Conclusions Although there is consensus on the importance of asepsis when performing ultrasound-guided interventions, there is limited literature about it, and according to procedures, differences in how to apply it. We believe it is an important issue that should be known by everyone who makes these techniques in order to avoid potential infectious complications, and even be advisable to carry out a protocol that could be followed uniformly.

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