Troubleshooting

The Avery Device Components

Spirit Transmitter

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Antennas

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Receivers And Electrodes

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Mark IV Transmitter

Device Troubleshooting

Avery Technical Support

Technicians are available by telephone to assist with troubleshooting and technical support during normal business hours (8 AM to 4 PM Eastern Time, Monday through Friday). 

Refer to the Instruction Manual provided with each system for complete instructions on the operation and troubleshooting of the Avery Diaphragm Pacing System.

For Patients Experiencing...

a loss of function or intermittent operation:

  • Use the battery indicator lights on the transmitter front panel to determine if battery replacement is required. The battery indicators should flash during inspiratory periods. If the battery indicator fails to flash after the installation of a battery known to be good, contact ABD for evaluation and repair of the transmitter.
  • Use the antenna indicator lights on the transmitter front panel to determine if the antennas are good and sufficient transmitter output is present. Use a spare, working antenna to troubleshoot between a suspected defective antenna and transmitter output.

* Antenna indicators may not flash at very low stimulus amplitudes even though the transmitter and antenna may be functioning properly.

For Patients Experiencing...

A decrease in tidal volume:

  • See if effective pacing can be restored at a slightly increased amplitude setting. If the patient is experiencing a temporary increase in threshold, the current amplitude settings may be ineffective.
  • Check for an infection (such as fever, pain, swelling or redness) anywhere in the body. Diaphragm pacing may become ineffective when a patient has any type of infection. Pacing at slightly increased amplitude settings during treatment of the infection may be sufficient to maintain adequate ventilation.
  • Ensure that the patient has not suffered any trauma or other accident which may have caused mechanical damage to the implanted components.

Spirit Transmitter

Proper Care of Spirit:

The Spirit transmitter is constructed with materials that minimize the possibility of accidental damage, but it is a delicate instrument and should be treated as such. The Spirit should be kept inside its carrying case at all times.

The following is a guide to proper care of the Spirit transmitter to prevent from accidental damage:

  • The transmitter should always be carried inside the provided nylon carrying case. If using a different type of carrying case or bag, ensure that the transmitter is inside the nylon carrying case even if using an additional bag (i.e. backpack).
  • Ensure that the provided silicone case is always on the transmitter.
  • The transmitter should only be removed from the nylon carrying case when changing the batteries or making adjustments. When removing the silicone case to change the batteries, do not touch the LCD screen (display).
  • Do not touch the LCD screen (display). The Spirit transmitter does not have a touch screen. Rather, it features a keypad for use when turning the transmitter on/off and adjusting amplitude and breathing rate.
  • Do not drop the transmitter.
  • Do not place the transmitter where an object can fall on it or strike it. Do not lean on the transmitter screen. Any impact may damage the LCD screen.
  • The Spirit can be cleaned with a damp cloth, making sure liquid does not enter the transmitter.
  • The Spirit is a single-patient use device, professional hygienic maintenance or disinfection is not necessary.
  • Do not allow the transmitter to become wet or be placed under a drip bag.
  • If the transmitter is not used for an extended period of time, remove the batteries to prevent them from leaking.
  • With routine use, the antennas do not need to be disconnected from the transmitter frequently. It is preferable to remove the antennas from the skin and leave them attached to the transmitter.

* If you have any questions, please contact us at (631) 864-1600. We are happy to help.

Antenna

The 902A / 902AL Antennas Care Instructions:

Antennas are a durable medical disposable item. Proper care and gentle handling will allow them to last longer. Do not stretch or bend the wire and keep the antennas connector free from dirt, dust and lint.

Proper care and gentle handling will make the antennas last longer, however, it will eventually wear out. ABD recommends replacement of antennas every six months (expected service life). Please ensure a spare pair of antennas is on hand at all times. Store the spare antennas in a dry place. Antennas carry a 90-day warranty.

  • The Diaphragm Pacing System will not work unless the antennas are affixed to the patient’s skin, directly over the implanted receivers.
  • The antenna wire must be routed away from the neck to minimize risk of strangulation and asphyxiation.
  • Do not put two antennas over each other (overlapping) as this could affect proper operation of the Diaphragm Pacing System.
  • When connecting to the Spirit, properly align the connectors and press them into place. Do not twist.
  • Keep skin clean and dry.
  • Place adhesive tape in a new location each day to avoid skin irritation or put antenna next to skin by other means: netting, elastic bandages, specialized garments or gas-permeable dressing.
  • When disconnecting from the Spirit, pull antenna connector barrel straight out of transmitter. Do not twist.

Types of Recommended Adhesives:

Antennas can be held in place using hypoallergenic adhesive tape. A suggested method for taping is shown in our photo below. It is recommended that tape location be changed frequently to avoid skin irritation.

A thin layer of polypropylene or similar material may help alleviate skin irritation due to perspiration when placed directly beneath the antenna. Amplitude settings may need to be adjusted accordingly to maintain adequate ventilation.

Alternatively, other adhesives as elastic netting that conforms to body shape, abdominal binders, elastic bandages, or gas permeable dressings such as Tegaderm® can be used.

Antenna & Hypoallergenic Adhesive Tape

Antenna & Hypoallergenic Adhesive Tape

Antenna & Elastic Netting

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631.864.1600

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Antenna Replacement

Antennas are reimbursable as durable medical equipment. Depending on your policy, prior authorization may be required. If a HCPCS code is requested, please use code E1399.

Please contact your Durable Medical Equipment (DME) company.

Customer Service

The Customer Service Department is happy to assist with troubleshooting and provide technical information regarding diaphragm pacing. Our hours are 8:00 am to 4:00 pm (EST) weekdays.

Need More Information About The Avery Diaphragm Pacing System?

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The Leader In Diaphragm Pacemakers
FDA Approved for All Ages
Since 1987

Contact

  • 631-864-1600
  • 61 Mall Drive Commack, NY 11725-5725 USA

Our normal operating hours are from 8 AM to 4 PM Eastern Time (EST)
Monday through Friday.

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