Sonde shepherd's hook n°23 handle n°6 half-moon - Hu-Friedy - Delynov

What is the Hu-Friedy Shepherd’s Hook #23 probe with #6 handle (half-moon)?

The Shepherd’s Hook #23 probe, manufactured by Hu-Friedy Mfg. Co., LLC, is a diagnostic examination instrument featuring a hook-shaped active end. This specific model is mounted on a #6 type half-moon handle, designed to meet the ergonomic requirements of practitioners during clinical diagnostic phases. As a dental hook probe, it allows for fine exploration of dental surfaces. This device is categorized as a Class I instrument according to current regulations, ensuring its compliance for use in professional medical environments. Hu-Friedy manufacturing quality ensures faithful tactile transmission, essential for identifying structural alterations in enamel or restorative materials.

What are the clinical indications for this dental hook probe?

This dental hook probe is primarily indicated for initial clinical examination and post-operative follow-up in oral surgery. It is used for detecting carious lesions, evaluating the integrity of pits and fissures, and checking the marginal adaptation of crowns, bridges, and fillings. In periodontology and implantology, it helps identify subgingival calculus deposits or excess sealing cement. Its Shepherd’s Hook #23 design is particularly effective for accessing hard-to-reach areas and testing dentin hardness. The instrument is exclusively reserved for healthcare professionals trained in these technical procedures.

What are the technical characteristics of the device?

The Hu-Friedy Shepherd’s Hook #23 probe is distinguished by its rigid and sharp working part, curved to form an open hook. The #6 handle (half-moon) is a central technical feature, offering a diameter and surface texture designed for stable handling. The connection between the shank and the handle is designed to withstand repeated autoclave sterilization cycles. As a Class I device, this instrument meets basic safety standards for non-invasive or short-term invasive devices. Its design allows for high tactile sensitivity, enabling the practitioner to perceive the slightest roughness or demineralization on the surface of hard tissues.

What are the contraindications for the use of this instrument?

According to information provided by the manufacturer Hu-Friedy Mfg. Co., LLC, there are no specific medical contraindications listed other than inappropriate use by unqualified persons. However, as with any metallic instrument, use should be avoided in patients with a known hypersensitivity to metals if the specific composition indicates it (though not specified here). It is imperative not to use the instrument on fragile structures that could be damaged by the sharp tip, such as certain aesthetic restorations in unpolymerized resin or inflamed soft tissues without prior precaution. Compliance with sterilization protocols is mandatory to prevent any risk of cross-infection.

What are the maintenance and handling precautions?

The Shepherd’s Hook #23 probe must be handled with care to preserve the sharpness of its tip. A dull or bent tip compromises diagnostic precision and can lead to tactile assessment errors. Before each use, the practitioner must inspect the instrument for any signs of corrosion, cracks, or deformation. Cleaning must be performed with appropriate decontamination solutions followed by steam sterilization. It is essential to read the instructions carefully before use to comply with the reprocessing parameters recommended by Hu-Friedy. Storage in a dry and clean environment is necessary to maintain the integrity of this Class I device until its use at the chairside.

Who is the manufacturer and what standards are respected?

The official manufacturer of this instrument is Hu-Friedy Mfg. Co., LLC, located at 3232 N. Rockwell St. Chicago, Il 60618 USA. The Hu-Friedy brand is globally recognized for the quality of its surgical instrumentation. This product is a Class I medical device, meaning it meets the safety and performance requirements defined for this category of instruments. Although specific CE marking is not mentioned in the source data, compliance with American and international manufacturing standards is inherent to Hu-Friedy production processes. Professionals must ensure product traceability and systematically refer to the manufacturer's instructions to guarantee use in accordance with public health standards.

State of the art

Specialized surgical instrumentation is evolving towards ergonomic designs.