Instructions for Use

Detailed instructions

This Chapter contains all the information required by users of the device for a safe, correct and accurate measurement. It includes a detailed and complete description of all the functions of the device, safety instructions and all the information required to understand operation of the device.

5.1 FIRST TIME USE

5.1.1 BASIC FUNCTIONALITIES

MTABSYSTBI is a wireless system intended for measuring Toe-Brachial Index (TBI). System is comprised of MESI mTABLET UNIT, MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT, 2x MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT and MESI LARGE CHARGING PLATE (CS4SYS).

5.1.2 AC/DC POWER SUPPLY AND BATTERY

The MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT and MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT use two power sources: the mains electricity, using an AC/ DC power supply for charging, and battery power while performing measurements.

Connect the AC/DC power supply to a wall socket with a mains voltage of 100-240V at 50-60Hz and to the connector at the back of the device.

5.1.3 ACTIVATION

When setting up the MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT and the MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT for the first time it needs to be activated out of the shipping mode. The device will not respond until it is placed on the MESI LARGE CHARGING PLATE and a multifunctional button illuminates. It is recommended that, prior to initial use, the MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT and MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNITS are fully charged.

NOTE: The battery inside a completely new device is most likely to not be completely empty and can provide enough power to start the device up. Nevertheless, please recharge the batteries prior to initial use.

NOTE: When the battery needs to be replaced, the MESI mTABLET UNIT will display a battery warning. For more information see Chapter 8 ERRORS.

5.1.4 BATTERY STATUS

The MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT and MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT each come with internal batteries. To check a battery's status, press the multifunctional button on top of each UNIT. The button will respond and light up in green or red depending on the battery state. If the green light flashes, the module is ready for the next step. Otherwise, see the Chapter 6.1 CHARGING THE BATTERY for more information on battery charging.

5.1.5 PAIRING

Before any measurements can be performed the MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT and MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT devices need to be paired with the MESI mTABLET UNIT. Take the MESI mTABLET UNIT and open Doctor’s profile (for more information about user accounts see the USER PROFILE Chapter of the MESI mTABLET Instruction Manual).

Step 1

Go to User profile > Settings > Modules > +Add module

MESI mTABLET ABI - Pairing - Step 1

Step 2

Press the button on the top of MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT/MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT devices until the multifunctional button light changes to blue.

MESI mTABLET ABI - Pairing - Step 2

Step 3

When the MESI mTABLET UNIT establishes a connection with the MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT/MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT devices, the light on top of the module will change to green. Confirm the pairing process by pressing the button on top of the module again.

MESI mTABLET TBI - Pairing - Step 3

Step 4

The final screen indicates successful connection between the MESI mTABLET UNIT and the MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT and MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT devices. It is possible to access all technical information about the connected modules in User profile >Settings > Modules > Connected modules

MESI mTABLET ABI - Pairing - Step 4

NOTE: When operating with only one MESI mTABLET UNIT this operation is required only once. In instances where more MESI mTABLET UNITS are being used this process will have to be repeated on each MESI mTABLET UNIT.

NOTE: The pairing process needs to be done with all modules being used.

5.1.6 ATTACHING THE TOE BLOOD PRESSURE CABLE TO THE UNIT

Prior to initial use, during transportation and when storing for longer periods, the toe blood pressure cable should be disconnected from the MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT. To connect the toe blood pressure cable, follow the steps listed below:

Step 1

Firmly hold the toe blood pressure cable in your hands. Connect the toe blood pressure cable to the port on the MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT.

MESI mTABLET TBI - Attaching the toe blood pressure cable to the unit - Step 1

Step 2

After ensuring that the cable is securely connected, attach the digit cuffs into corresponding cuff connector. Please ensure that the cuff colours match the pressure hose colours.

MESI mTABLET TBI - Attaching the toe blood pressure cable to the unit - Step 2

NOTE: During transportation, the toe blood pressure cable should be disconnected from the MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT. To detach the toe blood pressure cable, push the side buttons on the connector and pull it out from the MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT.

NOTE: When detaching digit cuffs from the MESI Toe Blood Pressure cable, slightly rotate the cuffs.

5.1.7 ATTACHING THE ARM CUFFS TO THE UNIT

Prior to initial use, during transportation and when storing for longer periods, each cuff should be disconnected from the MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT. The conical cuff can be oriented any way to the MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT. To connect the cuff, follow the next steps:

Step 1:

Firmly hold the MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT in your hands.

MESI mTABLET TBI - Attaching the arm cuffs to the unit - Step 1

Step 2

Attach the cuff to the MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT

MESI mTABLET TBI - Attaching the arm cuffs to the unit - Step 2

5.1.8 DETACHING THE ARM CUFFS TO THE UNIT

During transportation, each conical cuff should be disconnected from the MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT. To detach the cuff, follow the steps listed below:

Step 1

Firmly hold the MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT your hands.

Step 2

Push the sliding lock in the indicated direction and detach the conical cuff.

MESI mTABLET ABI - Detaching the cuffs

5.2 PATIENT SELECTION

Before performing a measurement, patient needs to be selected or added to your working groups a patient list.

5.2.1 SELECTING A PATIENT

Step 1

Press the patient tab button on the home screen.

MESI mTABLET TBI - Adding patient

Step 2

Use the search bar (1) or scroll (2) to the patient who is having their TBI measured.

MESI mTABLET ABI - Selecting a patient - Step 2

Step 3

Select the patient.

MESI mTABLET ABI - Selecting a patient - Step 3

5.2.2 ADDING A PATIENT

Step 1

On your home screen, press the + button in the Patient tab.

MESI mTABLET TBI - Adding patient

Step 2

Fill out required fields (Name, Surname, Date of Birth and Gender) and any additional information regarding the patient.

MESI mTABLET ABI - Adding a patient - Step 2

Step 3

Save the patient by pressing the ✔️ button.

MESI mTABLET ABI - Adding a patient - Step 3

5.3 PERFORMING A TBI MEASUREMENT

During the test it is important that the patient is lying comfortably in supine position, legs uncrossed, elbow and forearm supported, palm side-up. Patient must relax as much as possible and not talk during the measurement procedure. You may keep the toes and feet warm by covering them with a blanket.

NOTE: It is recommended that the patient lies still for at least 5 minutes before starting the measurement process.

NOTE: The person carrying out the measurement should always remain by the patient’s side and closely monitor the measurement process.

5.3.1 CUFF PLACEMENT

The MESI automated wireless TBI system includes 2 digit cuffs and 2 arm cuffs. The TBI measurement can be made using 4 or 3 cuffs. When using 4 cuffs the MESI mTABLET TBI System uses the SmartArmTM algorithm to identify the arm with the higher systolic blood pressure, which can be used in the TBI calculation.

When using only 3 cuffs the user needs to identify the arm with the higher systolic blood pressure first and use it for the 3 cuff measurement.

NOTE: The measurement of the Toe Brachial Index can be affected by a limb's temperature, the position of the photoplethysmographic probe, placement of the cuffs, the position of the patient and their physical condition. The functioning of the device can also be affected by high temperature, humidity and altitudes.

TBI Measurement with 4 Cuffs

TBI Measurement with 4 Cuffs

Option 1: TBI Measurement with 3 Cuffs (Right Arm)

MESI mTABLET TBI - Option 1 TBI Measurement with 3 Cuffs (Right Arm)

Option 2: TBI Measurement with 3 Cuffs (Left Arm)

MESI mTABLET TBI - Option 2 TBI Measurement with 3 Cuffs (Left Arm)

ARM PLACEMENT – PLACING THE CUFF ON THE ARM

Position the cuff 1-2 cm above the elbow joint. Align the artery label with the artery on inner side of an arm.

MESI mTABLET ABI - Cuff placement - Arm cuff

Place the cuff so that there is two fingers’ width of room between the limb and the cuff. Check that you have chosen the correct size using the SIZE marking and the OK area of the cuff.

MESI mTABLET ABI - Cuff placement - Arm cuff (2)

TOE PLACEMENT – PLACING THE CUFF ON THE TOE

Position the module between the patient’s legs. Wrap the digit cuffs around the base of the appropriate big toe according to the colour coding. Make sure the cuffs are wrapped around the toes tightly but comfortably. The cuffs should not be placed too loosely. However, avoid fastening them too tightly, as this would prevent adequate blood flow and potentially cause discomfort.

MESI mTABLET TBI - TOE PLACEMENT – PLACING THE CUFF ON THE TOE

Place the photoplethysmographic probe (PPG probe) against the skin on the pulp of the appropriate big toe and secure it with enclosed fastener strap or a medical tape. Probe should not create any additional pressure on the pulp of the toe.

MESI mTABLET TBI - TOE PLACEMENT – PLACING THE CUFF ON THE TOE(2)

NOTE: For other cuffs observe Instructions for use of the cuff available in the MESI TUBELESS CUFF MODULE package or contact your local distributor for more information.

NOTE: Positioning the PPG sensor can influence the measurement result so it is important that the user tries several positions before finding the optimal signal strength.

5.3.2 PERFORMING THE TBI MEASUREMENT

Step 1

On your MESI mTABLET UNIT, select an existing patient or add a new one.

MESI mTABLET TBI - Adding patient

Step 2

After selecting the patient, please select the TBI measurement in the application menu.

MESI mTABLET TBI - PERFORMING THE TBI MEASUREMENT - Step 2

Step 3

Select 3 cuff or 4 cuff measurement (when choosing 3 cuff measurement select right or left arm) and press OK.

MESI mTABLET TBI - PERFORMING THE TBI MEASUREMENT - Step 3

Step 4

Amputation option – if a patient has amputated limb or is not compliant for TBI measurement due to severe and/or painful wounds, the user can deselect from the measurement.

Before a measurement is made the user can disable a selected cuff by pressing on the button and selecting the limb that is not compliant for measurement.

MESI mTABLET TBI - PERFORMING THE TBI MEASUREMENT - Step 4

NOTE: If the MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT or MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT have low batteries or connectivity issues, a notification will be displayed on the instructions screen. In case of errors please consult Chapters 8 ERRORS and 9 TROUBLESHOOTING.

Step 5

Observe the position indication on the cuffs and place them on the appropriate arm.

MESI mTABLET TBI - PERFORMING THE TBI MEASUREMENT - Step 5

Step 6

Wrap the digit cuffs around the base of the appropriate big toe. Place the PPG probe against the skin on the fleshy part of the appropriate big toe and secure it with the enclosed fastener strap or medical tape. Afterwards press CONTINUE.

MESI mTABLET TBI - PERFORMING THE TBI MEASUREMENT - Step 6

Step 7

Check the signal and wait for the PPG waveforms of each toe to stabilise. You can amplify the signal strength by pressing the - (1) and + (2) buttons or wait a few moments for the device to adjust the signal strength automatically. Once the waveforms are stabilised, press START and wait until the measurement has been completed. The temperature next to the PPG waveforms displays the current skin temperature of each toe.

MESI mTABLET TBI - PERFORMING THE TBI MEASUREMENT - Step 7

Step 8

During the measurement the arm pressure waveforms show pressure oscillation for each arm while the pressure next to the oscillation displays the current pressure in the corresponding cuff. The PPG waveforms for each toe show oscillation of the blood flow in each toe while the pressure next to the PPG waveforms displays the current pressure in the corresponding toe cuff. The progress bar shows the TBI measurement timeline. When the bar comes to an end the measurement of blood pressure is f inished and all the cuffs have deflated.

Step 9

If required use the calliper tool (3) by sliding the graph sideways to adjust the pressure reading. Afterwards press CONFIRM. The SKIP button will use automatic values and take you directly to the result screen. For more information regarding the result interpretation, oscillation or pulse waveform graph see Chapter 5.5.2 PPG PULSE WAVEFORMS INTERPRETATION AND TOE BLOOD PRESSURE.

MESI mTABLET TBI - PERFORMING THE TBI MEASUREMENT - Step 9

5.4 REVIEWING A TBI MEASUREMENT

MESI mTABLET TBI - Reviewing a tbi measurement (1)MESI mTABLET TBI - Reviewing a tbi measurement (2)

5.4.1 MESI MTABLET RESULTS SCREEN

When the measurement process is completed the result will be displayed on the screen. It consists of five different areas: Navigation Area, Measurement Parameters (Right/Left Toe Brachial Index, Systolic/Diastolic Pressure, Heart Rate), PPG Pulse Waveform Recordings, Oscillation Graphs and Pulse wave Forms, patient’s measurement history, comments on the result and another navigation area.

5.4.1.1 Navigation area

All the buttons and information placed in the navigation area are there to help you navigate the application. You can toggle between this patient's previous results. If you are not satisfied with the recording for any reason, you can quickly discard it. In case of uncertainty you can consult the measurement with a specialist by clicking on share button and entering their email address. You can either repeat the measurement or delete it. Or you can press the printer icon which will provide you with a printout of a selected measurement. The navigation menu also contains the names of both the doctor performing the recording and the patient.

5.4.1.2 Measurement information

This section shows the left and right toe-brachial index results along with the systolic and diastolic blood pressures of the arm that was used for the calculation.

Pressing the 'Show more' button will display more detailed information regarding systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurement (mmHg) on the arm/s and toe/s, the pulse rate (depending on which measurement option the user selected, i.e. the 3 cuff or 4 cuff measurement) and the skin temperature of each toe during the measurement.

5.4.1.3 PPG Pulse Waveform Recordings

In this field the entire PPG pulse waveform recordings in toes can be examined. For more information please see Chapter 5.5 INTERPRETATION OF A TBI RESULT.

5.4.1.4 Oscillation Graphs and Pulse Waveform Recordings

The entire TBI measurement pulse waveform (oscillation graph) or a detailed view (pulse waveform) can be examined in this section. For more information regarding the reading, oscillation or pulse waveform graph see Chapter 5.5 INTERPRETATION OF A TBI RESULT.

5.4.1.5 Patient measurement history

History holds an overview of measurements taken by the same doctor on the same patient. It shows the trend of the patient’s results for left and right TBI on a specific date.

5.4.1.6 Comments Area

A comment can be added to every measurement. It will be stored and always available together with a recoding report.

5.5 INTERPRETATION OF A TBI RESULT

5.5.1 DETECTION OF SYSTOLIC BLOOD PRESSURE IN TOES

When starting the measurement process, the device will start inflating cuffs on all selected extremities at once. At some point the digit cuffs will stop the blood flow in toes and continue with inflation to the point determined by the arm cuffs. The waveforms in the toes will level out. Right after reaching the maximum pressure, all four cuffs will start deflating simultaneously at a controlled rate.

At some point in the deflation phase the blood flow in toes will return and waveforms will re-establish. The very first returning waveform represents the point of systolic blood pressure in the toe. FirstWave™ algorithm will automatically detect it and position the cursor at the beginning of it.

NOTE: The external factors such as temperature, light conditions and patient movement can influence the blood flow in digital arteries which can influence the measurement result. If the results of the Toe-Brachial Pressure Index measurement are very unusual, repeat the measurement three times.

5.5.2 PPG PULSE WAVEFORMS INTERPRETATION AND TOE BLOOD PRESSURE

The MESI mTABLET TBI uses the unique FirstWave™ algorithm to automatically detect the first returning pulse waveform which indicates systolic blood pressure in the toes. However, the user has the option to reposition the cursor manually and select a different returning point for blood flow.

Understanding the PPG waveforms shape can help you make better decisions when manually selecting the returning point for blood flow.

In the first phase of the measurement, the device will start inflating cuffs on all selected extremities at once. At some point in the inflation phase, the digit cuffs will stop the blood flow in toes. The waveforms in toes will level out. The device will contintue with inflation until reaching the maximum pressure which will be defined automatically by the device itself.

Right after reaching the maximum pressure, all four (selected) cuffs will start deflating simultaneously at a controlled rate. At some point in the deflation phase the blood flow in toes will return and waveforms will re-establish. The very first returning waveform represents the point of systolic blood pressure in the toe. FirstWave™ algorithm will automatically detect it and position the caliper at the beginning of it.

Before confirming the selected waveform, the user has the option to re-position the caliper manually and select a different return point of the blood flow, by moving the caliper left or right.

Correct positioning of the caliper: caliper is positioned at the beginning of the first clearly visible waveform.

MESI mTABLET TBI -PPG PULSE WAVEFORMS INTERPRETATION AND TOE BLOOD PRESSURE (1)

Wrong positioning of the caliper: caliper is not positioned on the f irst clearly visible waveform. The graph should be slid to the left.

MESI mTABLET TBI -PPG PULSE WAVEFORMS INTERPRETATION AND TOE BLOOD PRESSURE (2)

Wrong positioning of the caliper: caliper is not positioned on the first clearly visible waveform. The graph should be slid to the right.

MESI mTABLET TBI -PPG PULSE WAVEFORMS INTERPRETATION AND TOE BLOOD PRESSURE (3)

5.6 MULTIFUNCTIONAL BUTTON

5.6.1 LED INDICATORS

Even though control of most of the MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT and MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT functions is performed through the MESI mTABLET UNIT interface, there is still a multifunctional button on top of the devices. Next to the basic colour light notification functionalities of this button there is also a possibility to perform some additional operations. These operations are based on the current status of the MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT and MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT.

MESI mTABLET ABI - LED indicators
5.6.1.1 Standby

Green: Battery capacity is more than 25%.

Red: Unit battery is less than 25%, please recharge the unit as soon as possible.

5.6.1.2 Charging

Green: Battery is fully charged.

Orange: Unit is charging.

5.6.1.3 Pairing

Blue: Unit is waiting for confirmation from the mTABLET.

5.6.2 BUTTON FUNCTIONS

5.6.2.1 Standby
Button functions - Standby
Column AColumn B
Status checkQuick press on this button in standby mode will perform a basic status check of MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT or MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT – green, more than 25% battery charge, while red means less than 25% charge is left and the module should be charged.
Pairing modeHolding the button for 4 seconds will put the module into pairing mode where it can be connected to a MESI mTABLET UNIT (for more information look at Chapter 5.1.5 Pairing).
Resetting the diagnostic modulesTo perform a reset of the MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT or MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT press and hold the LED button for 10 seconds until it changes colour to red. The unit will be ready to use in a few seconds.
5.6.2.2 Measurement mode
Button functions - Measurement mode
Column AColumn B
Stop measuringPressing the top button on the MESI TOE BLOOD PRESSURE UNIT or MESI TUBELESS CUFF UNIT while performing a TBI measurement will stop the measurement.

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