The world we live in today is mesmerizing. Technological advances are being made every day, and our lives are changing just as fast. Scientists, engineers, and their associated companies are investing time and money to create products that raise the living standards of the consumers. These changes are found in all sectors and all of the components of our daily lives. In medicine, inventions have transformed how doctors diagnose, treat, and operate.These new developments have helped save lives by enabling doctors to detect diseases early,perform operations more successfully, and treat more effectively. One such device is the Stimpod.
The Stimpod is a nerve stimulator for nerve blocks, and its purpose is to provide the status of the strength of contraction of an affected limb. To achieve this, the device has a tri-axial accelerometer. The data is then graphically shown on the display. It provides other relevant ratios as well. The device can be used for both regional and general anesthesia.
You may be wondering what problems this nerve locator device has solved. In anesthesia, it is becoming increasingly important for doctors to effectively monitor neuromuscular blocks.Stimpods are able to accurately detect residual blocks and consequently lowers one’s chances of residual paralysis during the early post-operative period. Residual paralysis should not be taken lightly and this is why doctors are keen to employ the device. There are a myriad of pulmonary complications that can be traced back to residual paralysis and these include.
- Collapsing of the airways
- Aspiration
- Regurgitation
- Hypoxia
These complications could be very costly, and deadly. It is better to prevent them than treat.
How the Stimpod functions is quite intriguing. The main reason that accelerometry is applied is to measure fine movement as opposed to monitoring visually. The limitations of subjective methods could have far-reaching consequences. It has been discovered that visual or tactile measurement techniques are unable to detect fade for TOF ratios that are from 0.4 to 1.0. Such inaccuracies cannot be overlooked and this is why the Stimpod is an invaluable tool.The triple axis accelerometer enables the Stimpod to measure the movement vector in all three dimensions. This is an extremely beneficial feature because one would not need to calibrate as is done with single-dimension accelerometers. This saves time, improves convenience and is more accurate than having to calibrate.
The Stimpod comes in a kit with a few other things that enable it to function at its best. First,we have the Stimpod device itself. There are three cables, namely, the map locate cable,locating cable, and an NMBA cable. You will also need an NMBA/standard ECG electrode that will be attached to the body. The device is easy to use with clear instructions on when to enter the cable. You will get an open circuit alert once the cables are connected. Next, you will need to set up the electrodes on the patient and the circuit will be closed. Next, you need to set the accelerometer on the patient’s thumb. The remaining instructions are basic and you will be able to use it effectively.
Try our Stimpod today and help save your patients’ lives.