Chattanooga VitalStim Plus User Manual User Manual

VitalStim® Plus

Four Channel

Electrotherapy System

User Manual

Operator and

Installation

Instructions

Rx only

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION ....................................2

FORWARD ...........................................2

PRECAUTIONARY INSTRUCTIONS ....................2

GENERAL TERMINOLOGY ............................3

SYSTEM SOFTWARE SYMBOLS ......................3

DEVICE MARKINGS ..................................4

INDICATIONS FOR USE..............................5

ELECTROTHERAPY, sEMG AND sEMG TRIGGERED

STIMULATION .......................................5

DEVICE DESCRIPTION...............................7

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION ............................7

OPERATOR INTERFACE...............................8

GENERAL WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS ...........9

CAUTION NOTICES ..................................9

WARNING NOTICES.................................10

DANGER NOTICES ..................................11

DETAIL DEVICE DESCRIPTION ......................12

COMPONENTS .....................................12

JACK PANEL ........................................13

OPERATOR REMOTE SWITCH........................13

SETUP INSTRUCTIONS .............................14

THERAPY SYSTEM STARTUP........................14

SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS ..........................15

SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS AND DIMENSIONS .......15

POWER .............................................15

WAVEFORMS .......................................16

PATIENT PREPARATION ............................17

ELECTRODE PLACEMENT GENERAL.................17

VITALSTIM® ELECTRODES ..........................17

PATIENT PREPARATION .............................17

DEVICE USER INTERFACE...........................19

SCREEN DESCRIPTION ..............................19

HOME SCREEN .....................................20

UTILITIES AND OPTIONS ...........................21

TREATMENT SCREENS ..............................22

ELECTROTHERAPY OPERATION VITALSTIM,VMS ...23

sEMG OPERATION ..................................24

sEMG+VMS OPERATION .............................27

PATIENT DATA ......................................29

RESOURCE LIBRARY................................31

TROUBLESHOOTING...............................32

TROUBLESHOOTING................................32

ACCESSORIES .....................................33

REPLACEMENT ACCESSORIES.......................33

INTERNATIONAL ORDERING INFORMATION ........34

MAINTENANCE ....................................35

CLEANING THE VITALSTIM PLUS ....................35

CALIBRATION REQUIREMENTS......................35

EXPECTED DEVICE LIVE AND DISPOSAL.............35

INSTRUCTION FOR SOFTWARE UPGRADE ..........35

COPY OF MANUAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

SERVICE AND WARRANTY..........................36

WARRANTY REPAIR/OUT OF WARRANTY REPAIR ....36

WARRANTY.........................................37

APPENDIX 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38

ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY EMC .........38

ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY EMC TABLES . 39

1

INTRODUCTION

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

FOREWORD

This manual is intended for users of VitalStim® Plus
Electrotherapy System. It contains general information
on operation, precautionary practices, and maintenance.
In order to maximize use, eciency, and the life of the
system, please read this manual thoroughly and become
familiar with the controls, as well as the accessories before
operating the system.

Specications put forth in this manual were in eect at
the time of publication. However, owing to DJO’s policy of
continual improvement, changes to these specications
may be made at any time without notication on the part
of DJO.

Before administering any treatment to a patient, the
users of this equipment should read, understand and
follow the information contained in this manual for each
mode of treatment available, as well as the indications,
contraindications, warnings and precautions. Consult
other resources for additional information regarding the
application of electrotherapy.

PRECAUTIONARY INSTRUCTIONS

The precautionary instructions found in this section and
throughout this manual are indicated by specic symbols.
Understand these symbols and their denitions before
operating this equipment. The denitions of these symbols
are as follows:

CAUTION

Text with a “CAUTION” indicator explains possible
safety infractions that have potential to cause minor or
moderate injury or damage to the equipment.

WARNING

Text with a “WARNING” indicator explains possible safety
infractions that will potentially cause serious injury and
equipment damage.

DANGER

Text with a “DANGER” indicator will explain possible safety
infractions that are imminently hazardous situations that
would result in death or serious injury.

NOTE: Throughout this manual, “NOTE” indicators provide
helpful information regarding the particular area of
function being described.

2

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

INTRODUCTION

GENERAL TERMINOLOGY

The following are denitions for the terminology used throughout this manual. Study these terms to become familiar
with them for ease of system operation and control functionality of the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System.

SYSTEM SOFTWARE SYMBOLS

Back Arrow/Previous Screen

Forward Arrow/ Next Screen

VitalStim

VMS

sEMG

Increase/Decrease Parameter

sEMG+VMS

Electrode Placement

Scroll Up or Down in a text box

Modality Description

Select

Custom Protocols

Customize

Micro SD Card indicator

Hand switch indicator

Battery voltage level indicator

Bluetooth connection indicator

Patient Data

Anatomical Library

Utilities

3

INTRODUCTION

DESCRIPTION OF DEVICE MARKINGS

The markings on the unit are assurance of its conformity to the highest
applicable standards of medical equipment safety and electromagnetic
compatibility. One or more of the following markings may appear on the
device:

Refer to Instructional Manual Booklet ............................

Neuromuscular Stimulation (STIM) and sEMG +Stimulation
should not be used by Patients tted with demand style cardiac

pacemakers...................................................

Testing Agency ...............................................

Electrical Type BF ..............................................

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

ON/OFF .......................................................

Remote Switch Jack.............................................

sEMG Reference Jack ............................................

REF

Output channel Jack ............................................ Ch

Back ..........................................................

Resource Library................................................

Home.........................................................

Manufacturer ’ s Catalog Number for the Device.....................

REF

Manufacturer ’ s LOT/Batch Number ...............................

Manufacturer ’ s Serial Number of the Unit .........................

Name and address of Manufacturer ...............................

Date of Manufacture ............................................

Keep Dry ......................................................

Protection against ingress of solid foreign objects of 12.5mm and

greater .......................................................

IP20

Do not dispose in normal dustbin (see page 35 for instructions) .......

4

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

ELECTROTHERAPY, sEMG+VMS INDICATIONS

INDICATIONS FOR USE

Indications

For VMS™ - VitalStim Waveforms and sEMG Triggered
Stimulation.

• Muscle re-education by application of external
stimulation to the muscles necessary for pharyngeal
contraction.

Intended Uses- VMS™ Waveform

VMS waveform is a square symmetrical biphasic waveform
with the application for use on the musculature of the
face.

The intended uses are:

Optional application of sEMG biofeedback with
Muscle Stimulation VMS™ waveform for prevention or
retardation of disuse atrophy, for muscle re-education,
and for relaxation of muscle spasms in the treatment of
swallowing musculature dysfunction in post-traumatic
conditions or after neurological insult with impaired
neuromuscular function.

Intended Uses- VitalStim Waveform

VitalStim waveform is a square symmetrical biphasic
waveform with interphase interval pulse with the
application for use on the swallowing musculature in the
anterior portion of the neck.

The intended uses are:

The VitalStim waveform intended uses are muscle re­education of the swallowing musculature in the treatment
of dysphagia (swallowing problems) from any etiology
except mechanical causes that would need surgical
intervention (for instance, obstructing tumors). Non­mechanical causes of dysphagia include: neurological and
muscle disorders; cardiovascular accidents; respiratory
disorders with swallowing complications; latrogenic
conditions (conditions caused by surgery); brosis/
stenosis arising from radiation; disuse due to stroke,
intubation, or birth-related anoxic injuries; and trauma
to the head and neck. This device is a prescription device
intended for use by or on the order of a physician or other
licensed health professional.

The sEMG intended uses are surface electromyography
biofeedback for relaxation training and muscle re­education.

Contraindications

The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System should NOT be
used under the following conditions:

• This device should not be used when cancerous
lesions are present in the treatment area.

• Stimulation should not be applied over swollen,
infected, inflamed areas or skin eruptions, e.g.,
phlebitis, thrombophlebitis, varicose veins, etc.

• This device should be used with caution on patients
with cardiac demand pacemakers or other implanted
electronic devices.

• Stimulation should not be applied over the carotid
sinus nerve particularly in patients with a known
sensitivity to the carotid sinus reflex.

• Other contraindications are patients with the
following:

- who are severely demented and exhibit non-stop
verbalization. Constant verbalization could result in
aspiration during trials of oral intake.

- with significant reflux due to use of a feeding
tube. Such patients are prone to repeated cases of
aspiration pneumonia, and the device has not been
studied in this population.

- with dysphagia due to drug toxicity. Patients
suffering from drug toxicity could aspirate during
trials of oral intake.

- undiagnosed syndromes or until etiology is
established.

- carrying serious infectious disease and/or disease
where it is advisable, for general medical purposes,
to suppress heat or fevers.

• Safety has not been established for the use of
therapeutic electrical stimulation during pregnancy.

Intended Uses- Surface EMG

sEMG is surface biofeedback for use on the swallowing
musculature of the face and/or anterior portion of the
neck. The intended uses are:

5

INDICATIONS FOR USE

Additional Precautions

• Caution should be used for patients with suspected
or diagnosed epilepsy

• Caution should be used for patients with suspected
or diagnosed heart problems

• Caution should be used in the presence of the
following:

- When there is a tendency to hemorrhage
following acute trauma or fracture

- Following recent surgical procedures when
muscle contraction may disrupt the healing
process

- Over areas of the skin that lack normal sensation

• Some patients may experience skin irritation or
hypersensitivity due to the electrical stimulation
or electrical conductive medium. The irritation can
usually be reduced by using an alternative conductive
medium or an alternative electrode placement.

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

• Electrode placement and stimulation settings
should be based on the guidance of the prescribing
practitioner

• Powered muscle stimulators should be used only with
the lead wires and electrodes recommended for use
by the manufacturer

• Isolated cases of skin irritation may occur at the site of
electrode placement following long term application

• The effective management of dysphagia by NMES
waveforms is highly dependent upon patient
selection by a person qualified in the management of
dysphagia

Adverse Eects

• Skin irritation and burns beneath the electrodes
have been reported with the use of powered muscle
stimulators

6

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System is a 2 Channel
sEMG and 4 Channel electrotherapy system used in
treating patients with oral-pharyngeal dysfunctions
(dysphagia) and disorders of the head and neck, with
Bluetooth connection to PC software.

To maximize functionality and life of VitalStim® Plus
Electrotherapy System, be sure to:

• Stay current with the latest clinical developments
in the field of electrotherapy, sEMG (Surface
Electromyography), sEMG + Stim (Surface
Electromyography with Triggered Stimulation) and
VitalStim therapy.

• Observe all applicable precautionary measures for
treatment.

NOTE: This equipment is to be used only under the
prescription and supervision of a licensed medical
practitioner.

DEVICE DESCRIPTION

7

DEVICE DESCRIPTION

OPERATOR INTERFACE

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System Operator Interface
contains all the functions and controls necessary for
operator access to all operator utilities, modalities, and
parameters for modication and system set up.

1. Color Display

2. BACK button

3. HOME button

4. Clinical Resource Library button

5. ON/OFF button

6. STOP button

7. START/PAUSE button

8. Ch1,Ch2,Ch3,Ch4 intensity buttons

9. Ch3 Lead Wire Connector (STIM)

10. Ch4 Lead Wire Connector (STIM)

11. Operator Remote Switch Connector

12. Ch2 Lead Wire Connector (sEMG or STIM)

13. Ch1 Lead Wire Connector (sEMG or STIM)

14. sEMG Reference Lead Wire Connector

15. Concealed button

Front Controls

6

7

8

Front Panel and Battery Compartment

12
13

1

2
3

4
5

9
10

16. Battery Compartment (Cover Removed)

17. Micro SD Card Slot

Micro SD card slot

17

14

15

11

16

8

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

CAUTION CAUTION

GENERAL WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

• Read, understand, and practice the precautionary and operating instructions.
Know the limitations and hazards associated with using any electrical
stimulation. Observe the precautionary and operational decals placed on the
unit.

• DO NOT operate this unit when connected to any accessories other than DJO
accessories specifically described in user or service manuals.

• DO NOT use sharp objects such as a pencil point or ballpoint pen to operate the
buttons on the keypad.

• DO NOT disassemble, modify, or remodel the unit or accessories. This may cause
unit damage, malfunction, electrical shock, or personal injury.

• DO NOT permit foreign materials, liquids or cleaning agents to enter the unit,
including, but not limited to, inflammables, water, and metallic objects from
entering the unit, to prevent unit damage, malfunction, electrical shock, fire, or
personal injury.

• DO NOT operate the VitalStim Plus Electrotherapy System within the vicinity or
environment as any therapeutic microwave or RF shortwave diathermy system in
operation.

• Device is designed to comply with electromagnetic safety standards. However,
there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
Harmful interference to other devices can be determined by turning this
equipment on and off.

• Inspect lead wires and associated connectors for signs of damage before each
use. Replace damaged lead wires immediately with new before any treatment is
applied.

• Electrode placement and stimulation settings should be based on the guidance
of the prescribing practitioner or other licensed health professional.

• Portable powered muscle stimulators should not be used while driving,
operating machinery, or during any activity in which involuntary muscle
contractions may put the user at undue risk of injury.

• Always check the stimulation controls before treating a patient. The stimulation
amplitude/intensity should always be adjusted gradually.

• Inspect cables, lead wires and associated connectors before each use.

• This unit should be operated at 5°C to 40°C and 15% to 93% Relative Humidity.
The unit should be transported and stored at -25°C to 70°C and 0% to 90%
Relative Humidity.

• Place the patient in a comfortable position during VitalStim therapy session.

• Failure to use and maintain the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System, and its
accessories in accordance with the instructions outlined in this manual will
invalidate the warranty.

• If you have difficulty operating the unit after carefully reviewing this user
manual, contact DJO or authorized DJO distributor for assistance.

• Use of parts or materials other than DJO’s can degrade minimum safety.

• Safe use of electrotherapy during pregnancy has not been established.

• Caution should be used for patients with suspected or diagnosed heart problems.

• Caution should be used for patients with suspected or diagnosed epilepsy.

• Caution should be used in the presence of a tendency to hemorrhage following
acute trauma or fracture, following recent surgical procedures when muscle
contraction may disrupt the healing process and over areas of skin which lack
normal sensation.

• Some patients may experience skin irritation or hypersensitivity due to electrical
stimulation or electrical conductive medium. The irritation can usually be
reduced by moistening the skin, using an alternative conductive medium or
electrode placement.

•

9

GENERAL WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

WARNING

• U.S.A. Federal Law restricts these devices to sale by, or on the order of, a
physician or licensed practitioner. This device should be used only under the
continued supervision of a physician or licensed practitioner.

• Be sure to read all instructions for operation before treating patient.

• Care must be taken when operating this equipment around other equipment.
Potential electromagnetic or other interference could occur to this or to the other
equipment. Try to minimize this interference by not using other equipment in
conjunction with it.

• Electronic monitoring equipment (such as ECG monitors and ECG alarms) may
not operate properly when electrical stimulation is in use.

• Do not drop the unit on hard surfaces or submerge in water. These actions will
damage the unit. Damage resulting from these conditions is not covered under
the warranty.

• This device should be kept out of the reach of children.

• Use only cables and accessories that are specially designed for the VitalStim® Plus
unit. Do not use accessories manufactured by other companies on the VitalStim®
Plus unit. DJO is not responsible for any consequence resulting from using
products manufactured by other companies. The use of other accessories or
cables may result in increased emissions or decreased immunity of the VitalStim®
Plus unit.

• Contaminated electrodes, lead wires, and gel can lead to infection.

• Use of electrode with degraded hydrogel can result in burn to the skin.

• DO NOT operate this unit in an environment where other devices are being used
that intentionally radiate electromagnetic energy in an unshielded manner.

• Use of electrode on multiple patients can lead to infection.

• Stop treatment immediately if patient experiences discomfort or pain.

• Long term effects of chronic electrical stimulation are unknown.

• Stimulation should not be applied transcerebrally.

• Stimulation should not be applied over swollen, infected, and inflamed areas or
skin eruptions, e.g., phlebitis, thrombophlebitis, varicose veins, etc.

• Stimulation should not be applied over, or in proximity
to, cancerous lesions.

• Using the supplied stimulation electrodes, the current density will not exceed
2mA/cm2. Using smaller electrodes or needle electrodes may lead to current
density greater than 2mA/cm2. In such cases, special caution is to be exercised
when adjusting the current level as too high values may cause skin irritation or
possibly burns. Consult the Electrode Current Density table in Appendix 3.

• The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System optional accessories are designed for
use only with the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System.

• Medical electrical equipment needs special precautions regarding EMC. Portable
and mobile RF communication equipment can be affected by other medical
electrical devices. If you believe interference is occurring, please consult page 38,
Electromagnetic Compatibility, to assist in removing the interference.

• Common RF emitting devices (e.g., RFID) and electromagnetic security systems
(e.g., metal detectors) may interfere with the operation of the VitalStim® Plus
Electrotherapy System. The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System has been
tested in the presence of these types of devices and while no adverse event
occurred, the device should not be operated within the vicinity or environment
as another RF emitting device.

WARNING

• Powered muscle stimulators should be used only with the leads and electrodes
recommended for use by the manufacturer.

• Before administering any treatment to a patient you should become acquainted
with the operating procedures for each mode of treatment available, as well as
the indications, contraindications, warnings and precautions. Consult other
resources for additional information regarding the application of each mode of
treatment.

• Simultaneous connection of a patient to high frequency surgical equipment may
result in burns at the site of the stimulator electrodes and possible damage to
the stimulator.

• Keep electrodes separated during treatment. Electrodes in contact with each
other could result in improper stimulation or skin burns.

• Electrodes should be inspected before each use for resistance. (i.e. hydration
level, tack, discoloration and impurities) Follow the manufacturing guidelines on
electrode packaging.

• Long term effects of chronic electrical stimulation are unknown.

• Any patient may be treated with the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System.
Extra care should be taken when this unit is used with children.

10

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

DANGER

• Stimulation should not be applied over the carotid sinus
particularly in patients with a known sensitivity to the
carotid sinus reflex.

• Use only electrodes and accessories designed specifically
for use with the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System. Use
of other accessories and/or techniques not approved
under the VitalStim® Plus certification training may result
in death, injury, or adverse effects to patient or
undesirable and ineffective results.

GENERAL WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

11

DETAIL DEVICE DESCRIPTION

COMPONENTS

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

The components of the VitalStim® Plus
Electrotherapy System are shown below.

Stand

Stylus

Lead wires

The available lead wires are shown below. Package
includes:

Blue Channel 1 lead wire
Green Channel 2 lead wire,
Orange Channel 3 lead wire
Cranberry Channel 4 lead wire
White sEMG reference Channel lead wire

Rubber Sleeve

Lead wire Clips (attached to lead wire)

Operator Remote Switch

12

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

DETAIL DEVICE DESCRIPTION

JACK PANEL

1. Channel 1 (sEMG or Stimulation)

2. Channel 2 (sEMG or Stimulation)

3. sEMG Reference Channel

NOTE: Always use Reference wire (REF) with electrode

attached to body for precise sEMG measurement!

4. Remote Switch Connection

5. Channel 3 (Stimulation)

6. Channel 4 (Stimulation)

OPERATOR REMOTE SWITCH

To operate the Patient Remote Switch, plug the remote
into the device on the Jack Panel, as shown below:

Once the switch is plugged into the device the switch
icon visible in the title line will turn from gray (not
connected) to white (connected)

After connecting the electrodes and setting up VitalStim

1

or VMS, complete the following steps to activate
Operator Remote Switch (activated switch indicated by
blue icon):

2

3

4

5

6

1. Connect Remote Control

2. Select the stimulation channel and adjust intensity
to desired level

3. Press and Release Remote Control button to activate
Manual Mode. Intensity will decrease to 0 mA

4. To start stimulation, press and hold the Remote
Control button

5. To stop stimulation, release the button

6. To adjust intensity level, press and hold the remote
control button while increasing or decreasing
intensity.

CAUTION

• Operator Remote Switch to be used under supervision

of a physician or certified VitalStim user only.

13

SETUP INSTRUCTIONS

THERAPY SYSTEM STARTUP

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

Complete the following steps for initial setup of the
VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System:

1. Remove battery cover, insert batteries following
mode of insertion defined inside the compartment,
place back the cover.

NOTE: Battery cover should be closed prior to

turning the device ON.

3. Select desired function on the Home Screen (shown
below).

2. Press the ON/OFF button located on the front of the
device:

14

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS AND DIMENSIONS

SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS

Width................................................... 3.8”(9.6 cm)

Depth................................................... 1.4”(3.6 cm)

Height .................................................. 6.2”(16 cm)

Weight............................................... 0.75 lb (0.34kg)

POWER

Input ..................................... 6V (4x1.5V AA battery cells)

Max. Output Voltage(Patient) ............................. 70V (+0/-5V)

Mode of Operation......................................... Continuous

Output Intensity

The is theoretical standard measurement output current across purely resistive
loads at maximum intensity setting. Pulse Width and current measured as
shown across 2.8 kOhm loads. This measurements is also valid on a 500 Ohm
load, as the VitalStim® Plus is current controlled device. Any load between 500
Ohms and 2.8 kOhm will not aect the output measurements. Your output may
vary depending on parameter settings.

VitalStim® Waveform

Maximum Intensity: 25mA
Zero net DC component

Maximum charge per pulse: 7.5 µC

GENERAL SYSTEM OPERATING AND STORAGE
TEMPERATURE

Operating conditions

The device will meet its requirement under the following conditions:

Temperature: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ... 5° C to 40° C

Relative Humidity: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....15% to 95%

Atmospheric Pressure: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 700hPa to 1060hPa

Transport and storage conditions
The device will remain in proper condition under the following conditions:

Temperature: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .-25° C to 70° C

Relative Humidity: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .. . max 90%

Atmospheric Pressure: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 700hPa to 1060hPa

Electrical Type (Degree of Protection)

Electrotherapy & sEMG ....................................TYPE BF

NOTE: VMS™, VitalStim waveform output intensities are measured, specied,
and listed to peak, not peak to peak.

15

SYSTEM SPECIFICATIONS

WAVEFORMS

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

VMS™

VMS is a symmetrical biphasic waveform with a 100 µsec interphase interval.
Because the pulse is relatively short, the waveform has a low skin load,
making it suitable for applications requiring high intensities, such as in muscle
strengthening protocols.

Output Mode ..............................................Electrodes

Output Intensity.............................0-25 mA (Constant Current)

Channel Mode .......................Continuous, Reciprocal, Co-Contract

Phase Duration.............................60-300 µsec (10 % accuracy)

Set Intensity .........................Individual Channel Intensity Setting

Cycle Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . User Dened (ON time/OFF time 1-99s)

Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1-80 pps (5 % accuracy)

Ramp Up/Ramp Down .........................................0-3 sec

Treatment Time ............................................1-240 min

Available on Channels...................................... 1, 2, 3, or 4

VitalStim™

VitalStim is a symmetrical square biphasic waveform with a 100 μs interphase
interval pulse with the application for use on the swallowing musculature in
the anterior portion of the neck.

Output Mode ..............................................Electrodes

Output Intensity.............................0-25 mA (Constant Current)

Channel Mode ............................................Co-Contract

Phase Duration................................300 µsec (10 % accuracy)

Set Intensity .........................Individual Channel Intensity Setting

Cycle Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ON time 57s , OFF time 1s

Frequency . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80 pps (5 % accuracy)

Ramp Up/Ramp Down ...........................................2 sec

Treatment Time ...............................................60 min

Available on Channels...................................... 1, 2, 3, or 4

sEMG

sEMG

sEMG reads and records the sEMG biofeedback activity of a muscle or muscle
group by sensing the electrical impulses generated during a voluntary muscle
contraction and relax cycle.

sEMG Range ............................0.2 to 2000 µV RMS (continuous)

Sensitivity ................................................0.1 µV RMS

Accuracy .................................. 6% of µV reading +/- 0.3 µV

Selectable Bandpass lter (3db Bandwidth)

Heart Beat Filter OFF

Reading below 235 µV ............... 18 Hz +/- 4 Hz to 370 Hz +/- 10%

Reading above 235 µV ............... 10 Hz +/- 3 Hz to 370 Hz +/- 10%

Heart Beat Filter On .............. 100 Hz +/- 5 Hz to 370 Hz +/- 10%

Notch Filter ..............................50 Hz - 33 dbs (0. 1% accuracy)

Common Mode Rejection Ratio .................130 dbs Minimum at 50 Hz

Available on Channels..................................... 1 or 1 and 2

16

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

PATIENT PREPARATION

ELECTRODE PLACEMENT GENERAL

• Examine the skin for any wounds and clean the skin

• Apply the electrodes to the treatment area

• Ensure the electrodes are applied securely to the skin

• Ensure good contact between each electrode and the
skin

• Check the electrode contact regularly during the
treatment

• Examine the skin again after the treatment

• View the Electrode Placement recommendations in
the Treatment Review screen as a reference point only
prior to administering treatment

• Follow electrode manufacturer instructions

VitalStim® ELECTRODES

VitalStim® Electrodes are a self adhesive, disposable ,
electrodes designed specically for use with VitalStim®
Plus Electrotherapy System.

PATIENT PREPARATION

Install VitalStim® Electrodes

1. Connect lead wires to VitalStim® Electrodes.

2. Leave protective backing on electrodes until
treatment area has been prepared.

Electrode Placement Guidance (as needed)

1. From the Home Screen, select desired modality

• VitalStim (Ch 1, 2, 3 and/or 4)

• VMS (Ch 1, 2, 3 and/or 4)

• sEMG (Ch 1 and /or 2)

• sEMG + Stim VMS (sEMG in Ch 1 and/or 2; Stim in Ch
1, 2, 3 and/or 4)

For reordering of the electrodes , refer to page 33.

2. Select Electrode Placement icon

Connect the Lead wires.

1. Connect the lead wire(s) to the appropriate port(s) on
the device.

2. Press the “Back Arrow” button/icon to return to
desired screen.

3. Examine the skin for any wounds.

17

PATIENT PREPARATION

PATIENT PREPARATION CONTINUED

4. Thoroughly cleanse the skin treating area. Open
the packet of electrodes and remove the Clean­Cote® skin wipe. Apply the wipe to the skin area
where the electrodes will be positioned and allow
approximately 30 seconds for the area to dry. Discard
the wipe after use.

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

NOTE: Thorough cleaning of the treatment area to

remove any topical medication and cream film as
well as loose skin particles from the treatment area
is essential to obtain good skin contact and ensure
good conductivity during sEMG and sEMG + Stim
therapy.

Electrode Placement

1. Apply the electrode to the appropriate skin area or
as instructed at your VitalStim therapy certification
program.

2. Attach the lead wire strain relief clips to the patient’s
clothing in a position that allows ease of movement
and adequate strain relief for the lead wire.

For sEMG and sEMG + Electrical Stimulation OPERATION,
refer to page 24-28.

CAUTION

• Do not apply to broken skin

• Single patient use only

18

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

SCREEN DESCRIPTION

DEVICE USER INTERFACE

Each screen contains the following areas:

Title Bar
Located at the top of each screen and lists the current
screen and previous screens back to the Home screen.
It also contains a SD card in Icon, Patient Remote Switch
status icon, Bluetooth connectivity and battery level icon.

Main Area

Located under the Title Bar, this area displays icons unique
to the current screen.

Channel Area
Located at the bottom of each screen, this screen displays
the following status information about each channel:

n/a: Indicates the channel is not (yet) available to be

selected

Available: Indicates the channel is available for use

Running: Indicates a treatment for the channel is

currently running

Paused: Indicates a treatment is currently paused

No contact: indicates open circuit which could be

caused due to poor electrode contact or fault with
lead wires being damaged or not connected properly

The image below shows the Home screen with modality
and resource icons.

Title Bar

Main Area

Channels

19

DEVICE USER INTERFACE

HOME SCREEN

The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System Home
screen provides access to all of the system modalities
and functions. The Home screen has the following
information:

Modality Icons:

1) Utilities

2) VMS

3) VitalStim

4) sEMG

5) sEMG+VMS

6) Patient Data

7) Anatomical Library

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

4

3

5

2

1

6

7

20

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

UTILITIES AND OPTIONS

The Utilities icon on the Home screen oers users the
opportunity to set the following preferences:

DEVICE USER INTERFACE

1

2

3

1. Clinic Name
Select the <Clinic Name> icon to enter the name of
your clinic. The clinic displays on the Home Screen
and on the patient Treatment Summary reports saved
to the SD card.

2. LCD Brightness
Select the <Brightness> icon to set the brightness
of the LCD screen. The brightness ranges from 10%
(dimmest) to 100% (brightest) in 10% increments. The
default setting is 80%.

3. Volume
Select the <Volume >icon to set desired audio
volume. The volume range is 0% (off) to 100%
(loudest) and is adjusted in 10% increments. The
default setting is 60%.

4

5

6

7

8

9

8 Display Unit Version Information

Select the <Firmware Version Info> icon to view
installed version.

9. Restore Default Unit Settings
Select the <Restore Default Unit Settings> Unit
Settings icon to reset all of the following settings back
to their factory defaults:

• Volume

• LCD Brightness

• Clinic Name

• Date and Time

• Language

• Patient Weight Unit

• Bluetooth Connectivity

10

11

12

4. Date and Time
Select the <Date and Time>icon to set the date and
press the right arrow button to set the time on the
unit.

5. Language
Select the <Language> icon to set unit interface
language.

6. Patient Weight Units
Select the <Pat. Weight Units> icon to set desired unit
of measure for weight .

7. Bluetooth
Press the right arrow button and press the
<Bluetooth> button to toggle between ON and
OFF, setting will be automatically saved. The default
setting is ON.

10. Restore Default Protocols
Select the <Restore Default Protocols> icon to
reset all protocols (factory custom, ) to their factory
defaults.

11. Patient Data Erase
Select the <Patient Data Erase> to erase entire
Patient Data from Mico SD Card inserted.

12. Heart Beat Filter
Heart Beat Filter eliminates heart beat signal that can
affect sEMG signal. Select OFF if you want to disable
the filter. The default setting is ON.

21

DEVICE USER INTERFACE

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

TREATMENT SCREENS

The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System Treatment screens for Electrotherapy and sEMG, include the following information:

4

1

2

5

3

6

1. Electrode Placement Icon

Press the Electrode Placement Icon to view suggested
electrode placements for the Clinical Protocol selected.

2. Modality Description Icon
Press the Modality Description Icon to view the text
explaining the rationale for the modality associated
with the specific Clinical Protocol selected.

3. Time Icon
Press the Time icon to adjust therapy time/duration.

4. Remote Icon
Changes color to white when Remote Control is
inserted and to blue when Remote button is pressed
and current is being delivered.

7

5. Therapy Information Window

View selected Therapy information such as Waveform,
Cycle Time, Frequency, in the Therapy Information
Window.

6. 4 Channel Icons
This icon shows the modalities in use.

7. Customize Icon
Press the “Customize” icon to edit the therapy
information.

22

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

ELECTROTHERAPY OPERATION VITALSTIM, VMS

DEVICE USER INTERFACE

All waveforms in the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System
are set up and edited in the same basic fashion. The
VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System has the following
Electrotherapy waveforms: VMS, VitalStim® .

Complete the following steps to begin Electrotherapy
treatment:

1. Prepare patient and therapy system for
Electrotherapy. Refer to the PATIENT PREPARATION
section on page 17 for electrode selection, preparing
the patient, and securing electrodes.

2. From the Home Screen, select desired Electrotherapy
modality. Refer to the Specifications section of
this manual for all waveform specifications for the
VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System. The Treatment
screen below will then appear (VitalStim mode
example).

• To customize waveform settings (available only for
VMS and sEMG+VMS Modality), select one of the
custom protocols (up to six protocols can be defined),
press the Customize icon located in the therapy
information window, and the screen below will
appear. Make the desired changes and press the Back
button to return to the previous screen, the Home
button to return to the home screen, new settings will
be automatically saved.

• To view information explaining the waveform, select
the Modality Description icon. Press Up and Down
arrows to scroll the text. Press the Back button to
return to the previous screen or the Home button to
return to the Home screen.

• To view the most commonly used electrode
placement for the selected waveform, select the
Electrode Placement Icon. Press the Text icon see
additional description. Press the Back button to
return to the previous screen or the Home button to
return to the Home screen.

3. If desired, connect optional Remote Control to device.

4. Select the appropriate channel and then use the
intensity buttons +/- to start the stimulation and set
therapy intensity for each channel.

5. Press the Start/Pause button to pause/restart the
treatment, or the Stop button to terminate the
treatment.

NOTE: Customize icon is disabled during therapy.

Only Intensity can be adjusted once treatment has
started

6. When treatment has completed, the Treatment
Summary screen will appear with the following
options:

- Save Summary - the data will be saved to the SD
card (if inserted).

- Repeat the treatment by pressing the Run This
Treatment icon.

- Export to PC ( available if Bluetooth connection
with designated PC software is established.

23

DEVICE USER INTERFACE

sEMG OPERATION

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System sEMG modality
reads and records the sEMG biofeedback activity of a
muscle or muscle group by sensing the electrical impulses
generated during a voluntary muscle contraction and
relax cycle. These signals are accurately relayed to the
VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System through VitalStim
Electrodes. sEMG can be benecial to muscle retraining
therapy by setting target values and charting the
patient progress in reaching those goals in a specic
muscle or muscle group. Within this section, general set
up procedures of the various parameters of sEMG are
explained. The following options are available: sEMG
(Channel 1), sEMG (Channel 2), sEMG (Channels 1 & 2),

NOTE: Do not place the VitalStim Plus device in close
proximity with a wireless device such as a cell phone
or wireless keyboard. Emissions from such devices may
interfere with the VitalStim Plus device.

NOTE: Complete the following steps to begin sEMG
treatment:

1. Prepare Patient and therapy system – Refer to the
PATIENT PREPARATION section for electrode selection,
preparing the patient, and securing electrodes on
page 17.

Set-up Steps:

• To view information explaining the modality, select
the Modality Description icon. Press Up and Down
arrows to scroll the text. Press the Back button to
return to the previous screen or the Home button to
return to the Home screen.

• To view the most commonly used electrode
placement for the selected modality select the
Electrode Placement Icon. Press the Text icon see
additional description. Press the Back button to return
to the previous screen or the Home button to return
to the Home screen.

• To view the Trace view, touch the Trace view Icon.
Trace View displays a real time view of the current
sEMG value as well as previous values. A horizontal

Touch the graph area to pop up
threshold adjustment arrows

NOTE: Always connect a single reference electrode to
the white reference lead wire in addition to the active
recording electrodes. Always use at least channel 1
when using sEMG or sEMG+VMS ( channel 2 cannot
be used alone).

2. Select sEMG icon from the Home screen.

3. Press the prescribed channel icon to activate or
deactivate it (see above for the available choices). The
treatment screen will appear (image below illustrates
the sEMG Channel 1 &2 selection).

Touch to toggle between Target
for Channel 1 or 2 ( T1 or T2)

trace graph will be displayed. Left Axis (Y): Value in
 Volts, bottom Axis (X): Time in seconds. The target
value will be displayed as a dashed line on the graph.
The numeric sEMG value will be displayed below
the graph. Press the Back button to return to the
previous screen or the Home button to return to the
Home screen.

24

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

DEVICE USER INTERFACE

4. The following options are available in Graph View
treatment screen:

• Volume - press the Volume button to adjust volume

• Target - press the Target button to select the method
Target Acquisition:

Max - Device captures the maximum effort from

number of muscle contractions.

Manual - Set Target manually.

• Swallow trials - Set a number of trials (0-90) to
challenge the patient and set an optional minimum
number of seconds to hold each contraction to count
as a successful trial

• Capture (or Adjust)Target - start Target Acquisition

5. Setting Maximum Target

• Make certain Target “Max“ is displayed in the Target
icon. Press the Capture Target button. Select channel
for which you want to set the threshold by touching
channel bar. Begin contracting the muscle and press
the Begin Capture button to start setting the target (
Capture Target period indicated by flashing “Contract”
icon and threshold bar).

• Press the Select button to set the Target.

• Once the target is set the sEMG Treatment Screen will
be displayed with the new target value set.

6. Setting Manual Target

• Make certain Target “Manual“ is displayed in the
Target icon. Press the “adjust target“ button to switch
to manual adjustment screen .

• Use the Up and Down Arrow buttons to adjust the
Target value displayed at the top of each channel
column.

NOTE: The capture may be stopped by pressing the

End Capture Button. The System will then select the
maximum contraction level achieved during the
contraction period.

• Once the maximum target value is captured, the
device switches to the screen which allows manual
adjustment (up or down by a percentage of the
value). Use the Up and Down Arrow buttons to
adjust the Target percentage displayed at the bottom
channel column.

• Press the Select button to set the Target.

25

DEVICE USER INTERFACE

7. sEMG session

• To begin sEMG session press START/PAUSE button.
Session data will be collected ( indicated by sEMG
value displayed in red and session time counter).
Once STOP button is pressed a Treatment Summary
screen will be displayed showing session data
captured.

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

NOTE: Once the Swallow Trials modality has been

started, the following sEMG options will not be
available: Swallow Trials, sEMG Channel Selection, 8.
Swallow Trials

• Once the number of trials has been successfully
achieved, the treatment will end showing Flashing
reward message (After 5 seconds display will change
to Treatment summary screen).

8. Swallow Trials

• Swallow Trials monitors and displays the number of
successful swallows a patient has performed. Press
the Swallow Trials button. Select the desired number
of successful swallows during treatment. The number
of swallow trials to select range from 1 to 90.

Select the desired Hold time which is the time

required for patient to hold above the threshold to
score a successful trial. The Hold time can be selected
in range from 0 to 10 seconds.

• The sEMG Trace View Screen will display, Contract ,
Hold and Relax prompts, trial the patient is currently
performing as well as achievement towards target.

NOTE: A successful swallow trial is when the patient

starts below the set sEMG target value, exceeds the
set sEMG target, holds it for set Hold time, and then
drops below the set sEMG target value for at least 1
second.

9. When treatment has completed, the Treatment
Summary screen will appear with the following
options:

- Save Summary - the data will be saved to the SD
card (if inserted).

- Repeat the treatment by pressing the Run This
Treatment icon.

- Export to PC ( available if Bluetooth connection
with designated PC software is established.

26

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

DEVICE USER INTERFACE

sEMG+VMS OPERATION

The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System sEMG+VMS
modality utilizes sEMG biofeedback activity coupled with
triggered electrical muscle stimulation using selected
electrotherapy waveform for the maximum benet in
muscle retraining. The following options are available:
sEMG+VMS (sEMG: Ch 1 and/or 2; Stim: Ch 1, 2, 3 and/or 4)

Stimulation is triggered by Channel 1 sEMG reading and
can be delivered to any of 4 Channels

The Electrical Muscle Stimulation is triggered when the
muscle contraction (sEMG portion of the therapy) reaches
the target, sEMG stops, and the muscle is then electrically
stimulated for the pre-set period. After stimulation,
the patient is given a Rest period and then repeats the
muscle contraction, attempting to reach the target to
again trigger the electrical stimulation. This is repeated
throughout the therapy session.

The sEMG portion of sEMG+VMS modality is used to force
the patient to contract the muscle to a prescribed target.

Electrode Placement Icon. Press the Text icon see
additional description. Press the Back button to return
to the previous screen or the Home button to return
to the Home screen.

3. Press the prescribed channel icon to activate or
deactivate sEMG Ch2 (sEMG Ch1 as a triggering
channel has to be active). The treatment screen will
appear (image below illustrates the sEMG+VMS
Channel 1 selection).

4. The following options are available under the
Customize treatment screen and accessed by pressing
the Customize icon:

NOTE: Complete the following steps to begin sEMG
treatment:

1. Prepare Patient and therapy system – Refer to the
PATIENT PREPARATION section for electrode selection,
preparing the patient, and securing electrodes on
page 17.

2. From the Home Screen select sEMG+VMS icon. The
screen below will then appear

• Volume - press Volume button to adjust the volume

• Target (refer to description in sEMG section,
Adjustable only for Channel 1)

• Capture (or Adjust) target (refer to description in
sEMG section)

• Edit sEMG+VMS - press the Edit sEMG+VMS to view
or customize waveform settings (available only for
VMS and sEMG+VMS Modality), the screen below
will appear. Make the desired changes and press
the Back button to return to the previous screen,
the Home button to return to the home screen, new
settings will be automatically saved.

• To view information explaining the modality, select
the Modality Description icon. Press Up and Down
arrows to scroll the text. Press the Back button to
return to the previous screen or the Home button to
return to the Home screen.

• To view the most commonly used electrode
placement for the selected modality select the

27

DEVICE USER INTERFACE

5. Press Start/Pause button (or Start sEMG+VMS icon in
Edit sEMG+VMS menu) to begin therapy.

• Session starts with prompt to activate and adjust mA
level of the Stimulation channels which will be used
during the session. Once intensity is increased to
desired level press START/Pause button to begin the
session. (Initial “Relax“ prompt).

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

• “Relax (Rest time)” - Instructs the patient to Relax.
“Relax” appears, indicating the patient should relax,
stopping the contraction. Relax continues for the
pre-set time. The cycle repeats when “Contract”
re-appears again, indicating that the patient should
attempt to contract the selected muscle(s).

• “Contract” - Instructs the patient to attempt to reach
the Target Threshold. “Contract” appears on the
screen, indicating the patient should attempt to
contract the selected muscle(s). “Contract” remains
on the screen until the patient’s sEMG output
reaches the Target Threshold, at which time Electrical
Stimulation is delivered.

6. Press the Start /Pause button to pause treatment, or
the Stop button to terminate the treatment.

7. When treatment has completed, the Treatment
Summary screen will be displayed

• “Hold (Stim time)” - when the Target Threshold is
reached, the “Hold” prompt appears, instructing the
patient to continue to contract the selected muscle(s)
until the pre-set time for the Stimulation ends.

28

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

PATIENT DATA

Patient treatment data can be saved to the Micro SD Card
for retrieving for later reference, sending and viewing/
printing on a PC software .
Complete the following steps to view and access patient

data:

1. Press the Patient Data icon in the Home screen. The
screen will display a list box of all previously saved
patient data accounts and sessions.

2. Select the patient ID from the list box by using the Up
and Down arrows. Select the patient ID you wish to
view and access by pressing the “√” symbol.

DEVICE USER INTERFACE

5. Choose one of the following options from the
Treatment Summary screen:

Choose one of the following options from the Patient

Account screen:

• View the intake information by selecting the FOIS
icon (Functional Oral Intake Scale).

• View the patient weight by selecting Patient Weight
icon.

• View electrode placement by selecting Electrode
Placement icon .

3. By using the Up and Down arrows select the
treatment date of desired session you wish to view
and access by pressing the “√” symbol.

• Delete the treatment summary by pressing the Delete
summary icon.

A confirmation prompt will appear asking, “Are you

sure you want to delete summary”. Press the Yes icon
to delete.

Return to Home Screen by pressing the Home button,

or press the Back arrow button to scroll back one
screen at a time.

• Export therapy information to PC by pressing export
to PC icon.

4. The Treatment Summary list box will appear with
detailed information about the specific treatment

(below example for sEMG treatment).

29

DEVICE USER INTERFACE

PATIENT DATA CONTINUED

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

A new treatment summary may be saved at the Treatment
summary (completed) screen.
Complete the following steps to save the Summary:

NOTE: Treatment Summary can be saved only if the Data
Password has been set. If it was not done previously, the
user will be prompted to set it in order to proceed with
saving or exporting to PC.

1. Press the Save Summary icon Treatment Summary
screen.

Define other details from the “New Patient“ screen:

• Select level of Functional Oral Intake Scale by
pressing “FOIS“ icon.

• Define patient weight by pressing “patient weight
“icon.

• Select specific electrode placement location by
pressing “electrode placement “ icon.

3. After saving the summary, you will return to Patient
Data screen. Complete one of the following actions:

• Access patient data as described in previous section.

• Return to Home Screen by pressing the Home icon.

Device Password Reset

Complete the following steps to Reset your Password and

access Patient Data (Note that once a password is reset,
user names will change to Unknown#1, Unknown#2,
Unknown#3. Original order of patient accounts will
remain as-is).

2. Select the patient ID from the list box by using the
Up and Down arrows icons to locate the ID or by
touching the name. Select the patient ID you wish to
save the summary by pressing the “√” symbol.

If there is no Patient account created for the patient

press “New Patient” icon and type in a patient ID
name , a yellow text box will appear confirming the
newly saved ID name.

1. Press the “Reset Password” button

2. Press keypad buttons in the following order: Home,
STOP, Back, Ch2+, CH3-

3. Set Device Password and access Patient Data (patient
names will be displayed as Unknown#1, Unknown#2,
Unknown #3).

30

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

RESOURCE LIBRARY

DEVICE USER INTERFACE

The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System contains a
unique Resource Library (videos and pictures) designed
to aid the operator in visually understanding and locating
specic muscle groups and commonly found problems
associated with pathological conditions as well as
providing an educational tool for the clinician to use with
the patient.

Complete the following steps to view the Anatomical
Library:

1. Press the Resource Library icon on the Home screen.

2. Select Anatomical Library icon to access anatomical
pictures.

• A list of related items to the body area will be
displayed. Select particular item to view the graphics

• View the selected image

• Press Arrow to go back one screen

3. Select Videos icon to access tutorial videos.

4. Press the Back arrow button to scroll to the previous
screen or Home button to return to the Home screen.

31

TROUBLESHOOTING

TROUBLESHOOTING

Problem Probable Cause Possible Remedies

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

32

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

REPLACEMENT ACCESSORIES

GENERAL ACCESSORIES

Part Number Description

5923-3 VITALSTIM PLUS ELECTROTHERAPY SYSTEM
25-8080 VITALSTIM PLUS SNAP LEAD WIRES

ADDITIONAL ACCESSORIES

Model Number Description

138083 VITALSTIM PLUS REFERENCE EMG LEAD WIRE
138085 VITALSTIM PLUS HAND SWITCH
138088 VITALSTIM PLUS STAND
138089 VITALSTIM PLUS STYLUS
138090 VITALSTIM PLUS RUBBER SLEEVE
138075 VITALSTIM PLUS BATTERY DOOR

ELECTRODES

Model Number Description

59000 VITALSTIM ADULT ELECTRODES, 12 PACK
59042 VITALSTIM ADULT ELECTRODES, 30 PACK
59043 VITALSTIM ADULT ELECTRODES, 50 PACK
59044 VITALSTIM ADULT ELECTRODES, 100 PACK
59005 VITALSTIM SMALL ELECTRODES, 12 PACK
138082 VITALSTIM PLUS REFERENCE EMG ELECTRODE

ACCESSORIES

33

INTERNATIONAL ORDER INFORMATION

DJO GLOBAL

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

AUSTRALIA:
T: [phone]

F: [phone]
E: [e-mail]

CHINA:
T: (8621) 6031 9989
F: (8621) 6031 9709

E: [e-mail]

GERMANY:
T: [phone]
F: [phone]
E: [e-mail]

SOUTH AFRICA:
T: [phone]
F: [phone]

E: [e-mail]

UK & IRELAND:
T: [phone]
F: [phone]
E: [e-mail]

BENELUX:

T: Belgium 0800 18 246
T: Netherlands 0800 0229442
T: Luxemburg 8002 27 42

E: [e-mail]

DENMARK, FINLAND, NORWAY & SWEDEN:
T: Sweden 040 39 40 00
T: Norway 8006 1052
T: Finland 0800 114 582
T: Denmark [phone]

E: [e-mail]

ITALY:
T: [phone]
F: [phone]

E: [e-mail]

SPAIN:
T: [phone]
F: [phone]

E: [e-mail]

UNITED STATES:
T+1 800 506 1130

F+1 800 896 1798

E: [e-mail]

CANADA:

T: [phone]
F: [phone]

E:[e-mail]

FRANCE:
T: [phone]
F: [phone]

E: [e-mail]

INDIA:
T: [phone]

E:[e-mail]

SWITZERLAND:
T: [phone]
F: [phone]

E: [e-mail]

DJO GLOBAL, EXPORT CENTRES

ASIA-PACIFIC:
DJO Asia-Pacic Limited
Unit 1905, 19/F, Tower II
Grand Central Plaza
138 Shatin Rural Committee Road
Shatin
HONG KONG
T: [phone]
F: [phone]
E: [e-mail]

EUROPE, MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA:
DJO Benelux
Welvaartstraat 8
2200 Herentals
BELGIUM
T: [phone]
F: [phone]
E: [e-mail]

LATIN AMERICA:
DJO Global, Inc
1430 Decision Street
Vista
CA 92081-8553
U.S.A.
T: 1 800 336 6569
F: 1 800 936 6569
E: [e-mail]

34

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

MAINTENANCE

CLEANING THE VITALSTIM® PLUS
ELECTROTHERAPY SYSTEM

Clean the system with a clean, lint-free cloth moistened
with water and mild antibacterial soap. If a more sterile
cleaning is needed, use a cloth moistened with an
antimicrobial cleaner.

Do not submerse the system in liquids. Should the
unit accidentally become submersed, contact your
DJO authorized distributor or DJO Service Department
immediately. Do not attempt to use a system that has
been wet inside until inspected and tested by a Trained
Technician.

Cleaning the LCD Screen

Clean the Therapy System LCD screen with a clean, dry
cloth, in the same way as cleaning the Computer Monitor
Screen. Do not use abrasive materials or chemicals or
liquids.

INSTRUCTION FOR SOFTWARE UPGRADE

1. Obtain a Micro SD card with upgrade file in root
directory.

2. Insert the Micro SD card into the device SD port (card
contacts facing upwards) and power On the unit.
Allow the upgrade to complete.

3. Remove the card and restart the device while holding
the concealed button in the battery compartment as
shown on page 8.

Allow the final stage upgrade to complete.

COPY OF MANUAL

To obtain a copy of the VitalStim Plus Electrotherapy System
User Manual, Part Number: 13-0892 , contact VitalStim
Customer Care at: 1-800-506-1130 Fax to: 1-800-896-1798

CALIBRATION REQUIREMENTS

No re-calibration or periodic maintenance is required
for the unit. Its characteristic do not vary under normal
conditions.

NOTE: The unit was calibrated during the manufacturing
process and is ready to be placed into service upon
delivery.

EXPECTED DEVICE LIVE AND DISPOSAL

The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System is expected to
provide at least ve years of normal use.

Council Directive 2012/19/EU concerning Waste Electrical
and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) requires not to dispose
of WEEE as municipal waste. Contact your local distributor
for information regarding disposal of the unit and
accessories.

35

SERVICE AND WARRANTY

WARRANTY REPAIR/OUTOFWARRANTY REPAIR

SERVICE

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

When the
require service, contact the selling dealer or DJO Service Department.

All Therapy Systems and accessory modules returned to the factory for service
must include the following:

2. Copy of original invoice issued at purchase of the Therapy System or Module

3. Ship the unit to address specied by an authorized Service Technician

Service to these units should be performed only by a service technician certied
by the Company.

Through the purchase of a Service Manual, DJO, LLC has made available circuit
diagrams, component part lists, descriptors, or other information, which will
assist authorized technical personnel to repair those parts of the equipment
which are designated by DJO, LLC as repairable.

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

1. Written statement containing the following information:

• RA Number – Obtain from DJO

• Therapy System or Module Model Number

• Therapy System or Module Serial Number

• Contact Person with Phone and Fax Numbers

• Billing Address (for out-of-warranty Repair)

• Shipping Address (Where to Ship Unit after Repair)

• Detailed Description of Problem or Symptoms

or any of the accessory modules

36

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

WARRANTY

SERVICE AND WARRANTY

DJO, LLC (“Company”) warrants that the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System
is free of defects in material and workmanship. This warranty shall remain in
eect for two years (24 months) from the date of original consumer purchase.
If these Products fail to function during the two year warranty period due to
a defect in material or workmanship, at the Company’s option, Company or
the selling dealer will repair or replace the respective Product without charge
within a period of thirty (30) days from the date on which the Product is
returned to the Company or the dealer.

All repairs to the Product must be performed by a service center authorized by
the Company. Any modications or repairs performed by unauthorized centers
or groups will void this warranty.

To participate in warranty coverage, this Product’s warranty registration card
(included with Product) must be lled out and returned to the Company by the
original owner within ten (10) business days of purchase.

This Warranty Does Not Cover:

• Replacement parts or labor furnished by anyone other than the Company,
the selling dealer or a Company service technician

• Defects or damage caused by labor furnished by someone other than
Company, the selling dealer or a Company service technician

• Any malfunction or failure in the Product caused by product misuse,
including, but not limited to, the failure to provide reasonable and
required maintenance or any use that is inconsistent with the Product
User’s Manual

COMPANY SHALL NOT BE LIABLE IN ANY EVENT FOR INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.

Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or
consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to
you.

To Obtain Service From Company or the selling dealer under this warranty:

1. A written claim must be made within the warranty period to the
Company or the selling dealer. Written claims made to the Company
should be sent to:

DJO, LLC
1430 Decision Street
Vista, CA 92081-8553 USA
T: 1-800-592-7329 USA
F: 1-760-734-5608

and

2. The Product must be returned to the Company or the selling dealer by the
owner

This warranty gives you specic legal rights and you may also have other rights
which vary from location to location.

The Company does not authorize any person or representative to create for it
any other obligation or liability in connection with the sale of the Product.

Any representative or agreement not contained in the warranty shall be void
and of no eect.

THE FOREGOING WARRANTY IS IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESSED
OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR
A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.

37

APPENDIX 1

ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY EMC

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System has been
tested and found to comply with the electromagnetic
compatibility (EMC) limits for medical devices to
IEC 60601-1-2. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
typical medical installation.

The guidelines below are intended to help promote
electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) in the identied use
environment for the The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy
System.

• Make use of available resources such as EMC
professionals and publications and Internet web pages
on the subject of medical device EMC;

• Assess the electromagnetic environment of the facility
(e.g., identify radio transmitters in around the facility)
and identify areas where critical medical devices are
used;

• Manage the electromagnetic environment, RF
transmitters and all electrical and electronic equipment,
including medical devices, to reduce the risk of medical
device electromagnetic interference (EMI) and achieve
EMC;

• Coordinate the purchase, installation, service, and
management of all electrical and electronic equipment
used in the facility to achieve EMC;

• Educate healthcare facility sta, contractors, visitors,
and patients about EMC and EMI and how they can
recognize medical device EMI and help minimize
associated risks;

Caution:
Medical electrical equipment requires special precautions
regarding EMC and must be installed and operated
according to these instructions. It is possible that
high levels of radiated or conducted radio-frequency
electromagnetic interference (EMI) from portable and
mobile RF communications equipment or other strong
or nearby radio-frequency sources, could result in
performance disruption of the EMG -too close to mobile
phones or noisy computer chargers may result in higher
EMG reading. If this occurs, survey the site of disruption,
and take the following actions to eliminate the source(s).

• Turn equipment in the vicinity o and on to isolate
disruptive equipment.

• Relocate or re-orient interfering equipment.

• Increase distance between interfering equipment and
your VitalStim® Plus device.

• Remove devices that are highly susceptible to EMI.

• Lower power from internal sources within the facility
control (such as paging systems).

• Label devices susceptible to EMI.

• Educate clinical sta to recognize potential EMI-related
problems.

• Eliminate or reduce EMI with technical solutions (such as
shielding).

• Restrict use of personal communicators (cell phones,
computers) in areas with devices susceptible to EMI.

• Establish and implement written policies and
procedures that document the intentions and methods
of the healthcare institution for reducing the risk of
medical device EMI and achieving EMC;

• Report EMI problems to the US FDA MedWatch program
and communicate EMI/EMC experiences to colleagues in
open forums such as medical/technical publications and
conferences.

More information is contained within a comprehensive
guidance document for EMC in healthcare facilities,
developed, with FDA participation, by the Association
for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (AAMI):

Technical Information Report (TIR) 18, Guidance on
Electromagnetic Compatibility of Medical Devices
for Clinical/Biomedical Engineers. AAMI TIR 18-1997.
Arlington, Virginia: Association for the Advancement
of Medical Instrumentation; 1997.

• Share relevant EMI information with others, particularly
when evaluating new equipment purchases which may
generate EMI.

• Purchase medical devices that comply with IEC 60601­1-2 EMC Standards (3V/meter EMI immunity, limit
interference level to 0.0014 V/meter).

38

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

APPENDIX 1

ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY EMC TABLES

Guidance and Manufacturer’s Declaration - Electromagnetic Emissions

The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System is intended for use in the electromagnetic environment deied below. The
customer or the user of the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System should assure that it is used in such an environment

Emissions Tests Compliance Electromagnetic Environment - Guidance

The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

RF emissions
CISPR 11

RF emissions
CISPR 11

Harmonic emissions
IEC 61000-3-2

Voltage uctuations
IEC 61000-3-3

Group 1

Class B

Not Applicable - Battery powered

Not Applicable - Battery powered

uses RF energy only for its internal function.
Therefore, its RF emissions are very low and are
not likely to cause any interference in nearby
electronic equipment.

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System is suitable
for use in all establishments , including domestic
establishments and those directly connected to
the public low voltage power supply network
that supplies buildings used for domestic
purposes

39

APPENDIX 1

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY EMC TABLES

Guidance and Manufacturer’s Declaration - Electromagnetic Immunity

The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System is intended for use in the electromagnetic environment specied below.
The customer or the user of the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System should assure that it is used in such an
environment

Immunity Test

Electrostatic dis­charge (ESD) IEC
61000-4-2

Electrical fast
transient/burst IEC
61000-4-4

Surge
IEC 61000-4-5

Voltage dips, short
interruptions and
voltage variations
on power supply
input lines

IEC 61000-4-11

Power frequency
(50/60Hz) magnetic
eld
IEC 61000-4-8

NOTE: UT is the AC mains voltage prior to application of the test level.

±6kV contact
±8kV air

±2kV for power supply lines
±1kV for input/output lines

+ 1kV dierential mode (line
to line)
+ 2kV common mode (line
to ground)

<5% UT (>95% dip in UT) for
0,5 cycle
40% UT (60% dip in UT) for
5 cycles
70% UT (30% dip in UT) for
25 cycles
<5% UT (>95% dip in UT) for
5 sec

3 A/m 3 A/m Power frequency magnetic elds should be at levels

IEC 60601
Test Level

Compliance Level Electromagnetic Environment - Guidance

±6kV contact
±8kV air

Not Applicable - Battery
powered

Not Applicable - signal
lines less then 3 meters

Not Applicable - Battery
powered

Not Applicable - Battery
powered

Risk assessment on the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System
indicates the compliance levels claimed are acceptable when
ESD-precautionary measures are taken.

Mains power quality should be that of a
typical commercial or hospital environment.

Mains power quality should be that of a
typical commercial or hospital environment.

Mains power quality should be that of a typical commercial or
hospital environment. If the user of the VitalStim® Plus Electro­therapy System requires continued operation during power
mains interruptions, it is recommended that the VitalStim®
Plus Electrotherapy System be powered from an uninterrupted
power supply.

characteristic of a typical location in a typical commercial or
hospital environment.

40

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

APPENDIX 1

ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY EMC TABLES

Guidance and Manufacturer’s Declaration - Electromagnetic Immunity

The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System is intended for use in the electromagnetic environment deied below. The
customer or the user of the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System should assure that it is used in such an environment.

Immunity Test

Conducted RF
IEC 61000-4-6

Radiated RF
IEC 61000-4-3

IEC 60601
Test Level

3 Vrms
150 kHz to 80 MHz

3 V/m
80 MHz to 2,5 GHz

Compliance Level Electromagnetic Environment - Guidance

Portable and mobile RF communications
equipment should be used no closer to any part of the
VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System, including cables, than
the recommended separation distance calculated from the
equation applicable to the frequency of the transmitter.

Recommended separation distance

[3,5

[V1] V, where V1 = 3V

[E1] V/m, where E1 = 3V/m

d =
V

d =
E

d =
E

where P is the maximum output power rating of the transmit­ter in watts (W) according to the transmitter manufacturer
and d is the recommended separation distance in metres (m).
Field strengths from xed RF transmitters, as determined
by an electromagnetic site survey,a should be less than the
compliance level in each frequency range.

√P

]

1

[3,5

√P 80 MHz to 800 MHz

]

1

[ 7

√P 800 MHz to 2,5 GHz

]

1

b

Interference may occur in the vicinity of equipment marked
with the following symbol:

NOTE 1 At 80 MHz and 800 MHz, the higher frequency range applies.

NOTE 2 These guidelines may not apply in all situations. Electromagnetic propagation is aected by absorption and reection from structures,
objects and people.

a

Field strengths from xed transmitters, such as base stations for radio (cellular/cordless) telephones and land mobile radios, amateur radio,

AM and FM radio broadcast and TV broadcast cannot be predicted theoretically with accuracy. To assess the electromagnetic environment
due to xed RF transmitters, an electromagnetic site survey should be considered. If the measured eld strength in the location in which the
VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System is used exceeds the applicable RF compliance level above, the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System should
be observed to verify normal operation. If abnormal performance is observed, additional measures may be necessary, such as reorienting or
relocating the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System .

b

Over the frequency range 150 kHz to 80 MHz, eld strengths should be less than [V1] V/m.

41

APPENDIX 1

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

ELECTROMAGNETIC COMPATIBILITY EMC TABLES

Recommended separation distances between

portable and mobile RF communications equipment and the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System

The VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System is intended for use in an electromagnetic environment in which radiated RF disturbances are

controlled. The customer or the user of the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System can help prevent electromagnetic interference by maintaining a

minimum distance between portable and mobile RF communications equipment (transmitters) and the VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System as

recommended below, according to the maximum output power of the communications equipment.

Separation distance according to frequency of transmitter

d (m)

Rated maximum output

power of transmitter

P (W)

0,01 0,12 0,12 0,23

0,1 0,38 0,38 0,73

1 1,2 1,2 2,3

150 kHz to 80 MHz

[3,5

d =

(where V1 = 3V)

V

√P

]

1

80 MHz to 800 MHz

[3,5

d =

(where E1 = 3V/m)

E

√P

]

1

800 MHz to 2,5 GHz

[ 7

d =

(where E1 = 3V/m)

E

√P

]

1

10 3,8 3,8 7,3

100 12 12 23

For transmitters rated at a maximum output power not listed above, the recommended separation distance d in metres (m) can be estimated
using the equation applicable to the frequency of the transmitter, where P is the maximum output power rating of the transmitter in watts (W)
according to the transmitter manufacturer.

NOTE 1 At 80 MHz and 800 MHz, the separation distance for the higher frequency range applies

NOTE 2 These guidelines may not apply in all situations. Electromagnetic propagation is aected by absorption and reection from structures,
objects and people.

FCC REQUIREMENTS

Part 15 of the FCC Requirements

• This device may not cause harmful interference
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
Operation is subject to the following 2 conditions:

• This device must accept any interference re-

ceived, including the interference that may cause

undesired operation.
FCC ID T9J-RN42
Contains Transmitter Module IC 6514A-RN42

42

MDSS GmbH
Schigraben 41
30175 Hannover, Germany

DJO, LLC
A DJO Global Company
1430 Decision Street
Vista, CA 92081-8553 USA
T: 1-800-592-7329 USA
F: 1-760-734-5608
DJOGlobal.com

© 2016 DJO, LLC. All rights reserved.

VitalStim® Plus Electrotherapy System
User Manual
13-0892 Rev. D 2016/10/11