Setup tips
Please see the product insert for full specifications and instructions. The tips listed here do not substitute for the product insert and are intended for users already familiar with the product insert.
Preparing the system is very simple, simply connect the components and turn on the unit!
- Remove the SonicWelder Rx from the grey carrying case. The system components present should only be the SonicWelder Rx, power cord, and footswitch and cable. (The handpiece and cable, sonotrodes, and wrench should be sterilized already.)
- Locate the sterilized handpiece & cable. The other components for the SonicWelder Rx should also be inside this storage module.
- Place the unit in a convenient suitable location where the 3 meter cord can be utilized by the surgeon.
- Attach the non-sterile switch (footpedal or other switch)
- Attach the power cable to the outlet
- Attach the sterile cable to the unit by removing the cap and aligning red dots.
- Screw on the sterile straight sonotrode tip using the sterile supplied wrench.
- Ensure the sonotrode tip is not touching anything else
- Turn on the unit (back side of SonicWelder Rx unit)
- The unit will self test. The result should be Level 2. You will not need to use any other settings, and the unit will always return to Level 2 when turned on and off after an automatic self test.
The SonicWeld Rx system is ready for use
If you receive an error message such as “Service 20”Ensure the sonotrode tip is tight
Ensure the handpiece and cable are not damaged
Prepare to drill holes
The SonicWeld Rx process requires preparation of a pilot hole using the SonicWeld Rx twist drills. These twist drill shank types are available:
- J-Notch
- Cylindrical (2.3 diameter J-Notch compatible)
- Cylindrical (large diameter for neurosurgery drills)
- Dental Latch (Contra Angle / Dental Implant handpieces)
- BOD - KLS Martin Battery Operated Drill
Twist drills are stored in the Battery Operated Drill container, or in the SonicWeld Rx Storage container containing the Handpiece & Cable. Setup the Waterbath (optional)
*Common twist drills are also available sterile (-71 stock numbers)Please follow your manufacturer’s recommendations for more information regarding your power drill system.
If you do not have or want the trouble of preparing a compatible cord-driven drill system, the cordless sterilizable BOD (KLS Martin Battery Operated Drill) is a very convenient solution for fast and simple drilling!
Prepare the Xcesior water bath (if needed)
If needed, the Excelsior water bath in an area that is within arms reach of the surgeon’s working area when it is needed. The surgeon sometimes will need to heat the plates and mesh to contour or cut them with scissors. The plate only stays soft for cutting or contouring for about 8-12 seconds, so it must be conveniently located.
The Excelsior water bath must be started 25 minutes prior to use to allow for heating time of the water.
The cover and the water receptacle can be processed by machine with the same validated programs used for anodized aluminum. The cover is heat-resistant and can thus be thermally disinfected by machine.
The device must be attached to a power source and switched on. The cover and then basin are placed over the device and it is filled with 500 ml of sterile water or saline.
Suitable Sterilization Methods for Cover and Water Container
The following parameters are recommended: For pre-vacuum cycles, a 4 minute exposure time at 270°F.
Caution:Time required for sterilizer to reach temperature is not included in the times given.
This is based on instructions in Steam Sterilization and Sterility Assurance in Health Care Facilities (ANSI/AAMI ST46-2002-5.8.1 and 5.8.2.)
Safety note:The responsibility for proper cleaning, disinfection and resterilization rests with the operator/user of the product. Be sure to observe your local regulations, including any process related restrictions. For sterilization and subsequent transportation and storage, approved sterilization packaging (e.g. as specified by EN 868, ISO 11607) must be used as appropriate.