Woodpecker / DTE Apex Locator- Minipex

1. What is the purpose of the Minipex Apex Locator?

The Minipex Apex Locator is used as a supportive tool in endodontic treatment to measure the length of apical teeth, aiding dentists in completing endodontic procedures accurately.

2. What are the key features of the Minipex Apex Locator?

• It provides clear visual indications of the file trajectory through different colors.
• Utilizes advanced multiple frequency network impedance measurement technology for accurate readings.
• Components like the file clip, lip hook, and touch probe can be autoclaved to prevent cross-infection.
• The device has a rechargeable battery, eliminating the need for frequent battery replacements.

3. What conditions are suitable for using the Minipex Apex Locator?

The device is intended for use in measuring pulpitis, pulp necrosis, periapical periodontitis, tooth length before restoration, and during tooth transplantation.

4. Are there any contraindications for using the Minipex?

Yes, it is not recommended for patients with pacemakers or other electrical devices due to safety concerns.

5. How should I prepare the device for use?

Ensure that the measuring wire, file clip, and lip hook are correctly connected. Conduct a connection test before use to confirm functionality.

6. What should I do if the screen displays “OVER”?

The "OVER" display indicates that the file has exceeded the apical foramen. Slightly retract the file to restore normal signal.

7. How can I ensure accurate measurements?

Ensure the access cavity is dry, use an appropriate file size for the root canal, and confirm good contact between the lip hook and the oral mucosa. Avoid using the device in the presence of blood or other conductive materials.

8. What do I do if the battery indicator shows low power?

Recharge the battery when the indicator appears. The device remains functional for several treatments even when the battery is low.

9. How should I clean and sterilize the components?

The file clip, lip hook, and touch probe must be autoclaved after each use, while the shell and measuring wire should be cleaned with 75% alcohol.

10. What are the troubleshooting steps if the device is not functioning properly?

• Check the battery installation and charge status.
• Verify that all connections (measuring wire, file clip, and lip hook) are secure.
• Ensure the device is not being affected by external liquid or materials during measurement.

11. Can I use any battery or adapter for the Minipex Apex Locator?

No, it is crucial to use only the original components provided by the manufacturer to ensure accurate measurements and device safety.

FAQs for Device Cleaning, Disinfection, Sterilization, Storage, and Transportation

12. What cleaning agents can be used for cleaning the lip hook, file clip, and touch probe?

You can use pure water, distilled water, deionized water, or a multi-enzyme solution for cleaning. Avoid using strong detergents or disinfectants with a pH >9 (alkaline) or pH <5 (acidic), as these can reduce the lifespan of the products.

13. How soon after a procedure should cleaning and disinfection of the products begin?

Post-operative cleaning should begin no later than 30 minutes after the procedure, and disinfection must occur within 2 hours after cleaning. If using a cleaning process, it should be done within 24 hours after the operation.

14. How should the products be sterilized?

Sterilization should be done using steam sterilization with a fractional pre-vacuum procedure. The sterilizer should comply with EN13060 or EN285 standards. The highest allowed temperature is 138°C, with a sterilization time of at least 4 minutes at 132-134°C, and the maximum sterilization time should not exceed 20 minutes at 134°C.

15. How many sterilization cycles can the products undergo before replacement is needed?

The maximum number of sterilization cycles for the file clip is 200 times, while the lip hook and touch probe can undergo up to 1000 sterilization cycles.

16. What is the preferred method for cleaning and disinfection?

Automated cleaning and disinfection using a washer-disinfector that complies with EN ISO 15883 is preferred if available. Manual cleaning should only be done when automated options are not available.

17. Can ultrasound be used for cleaning the products?

No, ultrasound cleaning should not be used, as it can damage the products.

18. How should the products be dried after cleaning and disinfection?

If the cleaning and disinfection process does not include automatic drying, you can dry the products using filtered dry compressed air or in a medical drying cabinet at a temperature between 80°C and 120°C for 15 to 40 minutes. Ensure that the drying environment is clean.

19. What is the proper storage environment for the products after sterilization?

The products should be stored in a clean, dry, ventilated area with a relative humidity of 10% to 93% and temperatures between -20°C and +55°C. After sterilization, store the products in a medical sterilization bag and ensure they are used within 7 days, or they will need to be reprocessed.

20. Can I use other sterilization methods such as hot air sterilization or radiation sterilization?

No, only steam sterilization using the fractional pre-vacuum method is allowed. Hot air, radiation, ethylene oxide, formaldehyde, and low-temperature plasma sterilization are not recommended and may damage the products.

21. How should the device and measuring wire be cleaned between uses?

Before each use, wipe the surface of the device and measuring wire with a soft cloth or paper towel soaked in 75% medical alcohol. After each use, wipe with clean water (distilled or deionized) and repeat the wipe at least three times.

22. What precautions should be taken during the transportation of the device?

During transportation, prevent excessive shock and vibration, handle the device with care, and do not expose it to direct sunlight, rain, or snow. The device should not be transported with dangerous goods.

23. What should I do if the product shows visible stains or damage after cleaning and disinfection?

If visible stains remain, repeat the entire cleaning and disinfection process. If the product is visibly damaged, corroded, or shows signs of wear and tear, it should be scrapped and not used further.

24.How should the products be stored long-term?

For long-term storage, ensure the products are kept in a clean, dry environment with a relative humidity of 10% to 93%, an atmospheric pressure of 70 kPa to 106 kPa, and a temperature range of -20°C to +55°C.

25. What are the limitations on the use of the device in high temperatures?

The device and products should not be exposed to temperatures above 138°C, as this can damage them. Avoid storing in excessively hot conditions as well.