Ultrasound probes as a possible vector of bacterial transmission

Abstract

Ultrasound probes are usually in a direct contact with the skin when used for detecting pathologic abnormalities. The probe could be a vector of bacterial transmission, but there have been few studies on this topic. We have made such studies, briefly reviewing 1) the conditions governing a possible bacterial transmission by probe, 2) the deterioration of an ultrasound probe by alcohol disinfection, 3) a suitable method for evaluating bacterial contamination of an ultrasound probe, and 4) the best procedure for decontaminating such probes. This paper may lead to a formal consideration of the relationship between ultrasound probes and their roles in bacterial transmission in clinical practice.