Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the AiM™ device mark the skin through the gel without having to remove the gel?

A: Yes!!!!! When you press the actuator, the ink ampule tip moves down through the gel and comes in contact with the skin leaving an ink mark on the skin.
 

Q: Doesn’t ink get in the gel?

A: A very small amount of ink will be absorbed into the gel, however, once you complete your ink marks along the length of the target vessel, wipe the gel and excess ink with the towelettes. *It is recommended that you remove the gel with the towelettes by wiping in one direction versus a circular motion.
 

Q: Does the AiM™ device work with all transducers (probes)?

A: The AiM™ device has been designed to fit on linear and curved linear transducers that fall within the 4 to 12 MHz range. For optimal delineation of the reference lines you may need to adjust the ultrasound system settings:

Focal zone placed at the near field
Image depth set at 4cm or deeper
Compound Imaging (“SonoCT”) disabled
 

Q: If I turn off the compound imaging, won’t it affect the image resolution?

A: Optimal image resolution is not necessary to achieve accurate ink marks over the target vessel/anatomy. You should only use the AiM device when your intention is to deliver ink marks accurately onto the skin. The AiM™ device is not intended for use during the evaluation aspect of mapping procedures.
 

Q: We use the “hockey stick” transducer for mapping procedures. Can we use the AiM™ device with this transducer?

A: You can use the “hockey stick” transducer (12 to 15MHz) to evaluate the anatomy, take measurements, etc. When you are ready to deliver ink marks over the underlying vessel anatomy, simply switch to a linear transducer in the 4 to 12 MHz frequency range.
 

Q: How do I use the AiM™ device in the groin area when the patient has a large pannus?

A: Use the skin indentation system, or have the patient pull their pannus up and away from the groin area when you are delivering marks in this area. Also, you can rotate the transducer and the AiM™ device 180 degrees so that the AiM device is directed away from the large pannus.
 

Q: Can we use the AiM™ device in the operating room (OR)?

A: The AiM™ device is a non-sterile product. You should perform skin mapping procedures with the AiM™ kit pre-operatively outside of a sterile environment.
 

Q: Is the AiM™ device FDA approved?

A: Yes. We received a 510(k) FDA approval as a Class II device.
 

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