Guidelines for Efficient Operation of Cardiovascular Test Equipment

Operating BDC Laboratories’ cardiovascular test systems require a solid understanding of the equipment and software. Whether you’re an experienced operator or a first-time user, this guide includes key reminders for effective use. 

Familiarize Yourself with the Equipment 

Before using any BDC Laboratories’ equipment, take the time to read the user manual and understand its functions. Familiarize yourself with the controls, settings, and tuning to avoid mishaps during testing activities. BDC Laboratories is dedicated to presenting a comprehensive description of the equipment’s operation, including suggestions to ensure the accuracy of data and efficient operation.

Zero Your Pressure Sensors Before Testing 

Prior to executing a test, it’s critical that the test system pressure sensors are referenced or “zeroed” to atmospheric pressure. This is especially important when performing hydrodynamic or similar functional performance testing for heart valves. Any artificial offset in the pressure measurement may impact the accuracy of a given measurement or misinterpretation of results. To zero the pressure sensor, follow these steps: 

1. Remove the pressure sensor’s luer cap or open the stopcock located on the non-test system side of the sensor. 
2. Close the stopcock located on the test system side, or otherwise isolate the sensor from the test system so only atmospheric pressure is being measured. 
3. Zero the sensor (reference to atmosphere) through the Statys® software interface. 
4. Loosely reinstall luer cap (~1/2 turn), or partially close stopcock on the non-test system side of the sensor. 
5. Open the stopcock located between test system and pressure sensor, allowing fluid to drip out the opposite end (via the luer cap or partially closed stopcock) into a cup or absorbent cloth. This prevents an over-pressure condition in the pressure sensor due to compression of the fluid with the stopcock. 
6. Run fluid through the sensor to deair and remove air bubbles. Should small prove difficult to purge, lightly tap the transducer while fluid is running. 
7. Fully seal the lure cap, taking care not to over-tighten, as this can lead to cracking of the polycarbonate housing, or fully close the stopcock on the non-test system side. 

Disable the Heating System When Not in Use 

When not in active use, turn off the heating system by toggling the temperature control switch on the control panel to the off position. This safety precaution protects against potential sample or system damage due to unintentional adjustments or unanticipated events. 

Keep Equipment Clean 

Drain solution from the test system after each study. If using a saline solution, rinse the system several times with distilled water to minimize the risk of salt buildup within the system. Salt crystals can damage hardware components and test samples in future studies. When possible, open cavities to the atmosphere to promote drying within.  

For disinfecting purposes, a soak for no more than one hour with a 3 percent concentration of hydrogen peroxide solution has demonstrated minimal impact on BDC Laboratories’ test system materials. Always rinse the test system thoroughly after any disinfecting process to ensure future studies are not affected.  

Seek Training When Needed 

If you’re unsure about how to operate one of BDC Laboratories’ test systems, do not hesitate to ask for assistance. BDC Laboratories offers both remote and onsite training and support to help get your team up and running quickly and efficiently. These sessions can be tailored for first-time operators or experienced team members who need a refresher.  

Use the Support Portal 

It’s easy to create a user account on BDC Laboratories’ support portal, where you can find software updates and important system announcements. For specific questions, review existing solutions articles or create a support ticket in the portal.