Buying a used Endolift laser: a 12 point checklist

Before buying a used Endolift laser, confirm who owns it, that no finance is outstanding, that the serial number matches the paperwork, and that it passes a test fire. Ask for the treatment count, service history, accessories and manuals, and agree what is included in writing.

The 12 checks

1. Proof of ownership. Ask for the original purchase invoice in the seller's name. The seller should be able to sell the machine.
2. No finance outstanding. If the machine was bought on finance or lease, the lender may still own it. Ask for written confirmation that the agreement is settled, such as a settlement letter.
3. Serial number and labels. Check the serial number on the machine against the invoice and any service records. Check the CE marking and laser classification label are present.
4. Age and treatment count. Ask when it was bought and how many treatments it has done, and how that is recorded. Our unit was bought in January 2023 and has done fewer than 100 treatments.
5. Service and maintenance history. Government guidance for second hand medical devices says usage and service history should be available to prospective purchasers before sale.
6. Physical condition. Check the casing, touchscreen, connectors, footswitch, key switch and trolley for damage.
7. A working test. Ask to see the laser fire, ideally with your own engineer present. Check the aiming beam, power output, cooling and the footswitch response.
8. Accessories. Confirm exactly what comes with it: console, trolley, protective safety goggles, footswitch, key, power cable and manuals.
9. Goggles suitable for the laser. Check the eyewear is marked for the wavelength in use. See Endolift laser safety.
10. Fibres and consumables. Ask which consumables the laser needs, who supplies them and what they cost, and whether any are included.
11. Instructions and software. Ask for the user manual and confirm the touchscreen protocols work. The Health and Safety Executive says suppliers of second hand work equipment should provide the original instruction manual or a copy.
12. Training and support. Work out who will train your practitioners and who to call if there is a fault. Training with our machine is available from Dr Rohit Seth at an additional cost.

Put the deal in writing

Agree the price, what is included, the collection date and the condition in a written sale agreement or invoice. State that the machine is sold used and describe any known faults. Pay by a traceable method and keep every document.

What the rules say about second hand devices

The MHRA says second hand medical devices are those already on the market that are sold on for the same continued use, and that they are considered already marked and do not need further marking by the new owner. A fully refurbished device is treated differently. The HSE says anyone supplying second hand equipment for use at work, including one off sales by users, must take steps to make sure it is safe as far as is reasonably practicable. Read the primary guidance from the MHRA and the HSE, and take your own advice.

Inspect it in person

Photos and descriptions cannot replace seeing the machine. Our Endolift laser is in London and an inspection can be arranged, so you can see it, check the documents and bring your own engineer. Enquire and arrange an inspection.