Combistim XP

The neurotech^® Combistim XP unit is a digital device providing Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) and Electromyography (EMG) for the treatment of incontinence both at home and in the clinic. The incorporation of EMG allows the clinician to access and measure the actual muscle activity, thus ensuring the correct and most effective treatment possible for you. CombiStim XP can be prescribed as a home therapy device, to maintain privacy and ensure maximum compliance with your recovery programme.

Electrical Muscle Stimulation, or EMS, is a widely used and recognised therapy, which aids in restoring normal muscle function. EMS aids rehabilitation by activating and strengthening weakened muscle and is clinically proven to be highly effective in the treatment of incontinence.

EMS works by using comfortable electrical pulses to stimulate motor nerves in the target muscles. This produces a ‘contraction’ of the pelvic floor muscles, strengthening them and bringing you closer to regaining correct muscle function and well on your way to rediscovering life’s freedom.

EMG (Electromyography) is similar to having an electronic personal coach, which measures the strength and quality of your muscle contractions. EMG gives you an on-screen reading, so you work to the best of your ability. This will help to ensure that you get the maximum benefit from every exercise you perform. ETS (Triggered Stimulation) activates a strong, comfortable contraction when you voluntarily contract your muscle to a set target level. This programme significantly helps your rehabilitation progress.

• EMS treats the root cause of the problem, not just the symptoms. This gives you the re-assurance you need to confidently know that your condition has improved.

• EMG gives you the feedback you need, to encourage you and ensure maximum compliance with your recovery programme.

• The unit can be prescribed as a home-based therapy, maintaining your privacy and giving you the freedom to get on with your life.

• It is drug free and proven to be effective in the treatment of incontinence with minimal side effects.

A specially designed internal probe/electrode is provided, which can both deliver EMS and recover EMG. The patient applies some conductive gel to the electrode and inserts it. The lead from the electrode is then plugged into the CH socket at the top of the unit. An external skin electrode must also be applied if EMG detection is required. See below for further details.

For EMG Biofeedback, the patient sees a visual indication of her EMG intensity as she works the pelvic floor muscles. For EMS, the patient turns up the intensity of stimulation and feels the Pelvic Floor muscles contract and relax in a repetitive cycle.

The CombiStim XP keypad and display work differently depending on whether it is in Therapist Mode or Patient Mode. Therapist Mode allows the therapist to select the best treatment program and options for the patient. The patient should never access the Therapist Mode to change these settings. CombiStim XP normally turns on in Patient Mode. CombiStim XP has 7 treatment programs, which can be selected by the Therapist. Detailed program parameters are available on page 21 of the Instruction manual.

When ordering the CombiStim XP please state the program you were advised to use over the phone or on the rental agreement form and neurotech^® personnel will ensure the the unit is sent out set on your specified program.

Contact your prescribing clinician or the neurotech^® team if you have any questions regarding usage of the Combistim XP.