Respironics Auto w/cfex or Resmed Auto Spirit

General Discussion on any topic relating to CPAP and/or Sleep Apnea.
tjs

Respironics Auto w/cfex or Resmed Auto Spirit

Post by tjs » Sat Dec 18, 2004 5:06 pm

I have a choice between the Respironics Auto w/CFLEX or the Resmed Spirit, w/no deductible on either. I'm not sure I need the cflex now as my current pressure is 8, but that could increase over time.

The DME I have been working with uses Respironics products but is willing to order the Resmed unit. However, they told me they would not purchase the software for reading the data from the Spirit, as I would be the only customer using it. They would provide me with the data from the Respironics anytime I wanted to bring the card in.

From reading the Resmed website it would appear that the Spirit will record alot of data that would be available to me, as well as the DME RRT and my doctor w/o using the Reslink. Am I correct on that? The feature that would allow me to look at nightly data is appealing to me, as i want to know what is going on with my treatment. My concern is my doctor will not be able to obtain data for longer periods, i.e. a month, from the Resmed unit unless I buy the Reslink to use.

I have also heard the Encore Pro software that is used with the Auto w/o cflex will not read the data from the unit w/cflex. Is this accurate?

As I said earlier, I am getting this machine paid for in full by my insurance and want to use this opportunity wisely in selecting a machine for the long term. I would greatly appreciate suggestions and comments from all of you out there about this important decision. Thanks.

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Re: Respironics Auto w/cfex or Resmed Auto Spirit

Post by Spiritus » Sat Dec 18, 2004 6:13 pm

tjs wrote:I have a choice between the Respironics Auto w/CFLEX or the Resmed Spirit, w/no deductible on either. I'm not sure I need the cflex now as my current pressure is 8, but that could increase over time.

From reading the Resmed website it would appear that the Spirit will record alot of data that would be available to me, as well as the DME RRT and my doctor w/o using the Reslink. Am I correct on that? The feature that would allow me to look at nightly data is appealing to me, as i want to know what is going on with my treatment. My concern is my doctor will not be able to obtain data for longer periods, i.e. a month, from the Resmed unit unless I buy the Reslink to use.

I have also heard the Encore Pro software that is used with the Auto w/o cflex will not read the data from the unit w/cflex. Is this accurate?

As I said earlier, I am getting this machine paid for in full by my insurance and want to use this opportunity wisely in selecting a machine for the long term. I would greatly appreciate suggestions and comments from all of you out there about this important decision. Thanks.
Hi,

The ResMed will allow you to download data in week-long chunks, and the PC software will accumulate it. In addition, if you're really hardcore, you can attach a modem to one of the ports on the Spirit, and it will autodial your doctor/DME/RRT's computer and download the data to their AutoScan software!

You don't need the Reslink, unless you want to track your Pulse Oxymetry. I'd get it just for the interest value, but it's insanely expensive ($700 or so).

I really like my Spirit.

Rob

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Post by rested gal » Sat Dec 18, 2004 10:12 pm

tjs, I may be way wrong about this but I think the only extra info you'd get with a ResLink add-on to the Spirit is, as Spiritus pointed out, recording pulse oximetry. And also as he pointed out, the Reslink for oximetry info is an extremely expensive add-on. One could probably rent a standalone recording pulse oximeter for a night for a whole lot less, if you wanted to check on that aspect of your sleep once in a great while.

As for whether Respironics' Encore Pro software works with the new REMstar auto with C-Flex, its my understanding that the previous Encore Pro versions do not. But that there is (or will be) a new version of Encore Pro software for the new autpap with C-Flex.

While talking about what one manufacturer's software provides and another's does not, in the usual overnight data most of us really want to see - I've heard that the Autoscan software used by ResMed machines like the Spirit does not show info about "snores" on its data graph. Anyone know if that's so? Both my Puritan Bennett 420E's SilverLining software and my Respironics REMstar Auto's Encore Pro software do show "snores" (PB calls them "acoustical vibrations) on the charts. I guess that matters more to me because heavy snoring was the thing that got me on the road to therapy.

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Post by Spiritus » Sat Dec 18, 2004 11:11 pm

rested gal wrote: While talking about what one manufacturer's software provides and another's does not, in the usual overnight data most of us really want to see - I've heard that the Autoscan software used by ResMed machines like the Spirit does not show info about "snores" on its data graph. Anyone know if that's so? Both my Puritan Bennett 420E's SilverLining software and my Respironics REMstar Auto's Encore Pro software do show "snores" (PB calls them "acoustical vibrations) on the charts. I guess that matters more to me because heavy snoring was the thing that got me on the road to therapy.
I'll read the software manual tonight, prior to slipping into my Darth Vader disguise, and report back in the morning.

Rob

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Post by rested gal » Sun Dec 19, 2004 12:23 am

tjs, I just now saw these two recent posts on the TAS message board:


"The LATEST version of EncorePro will read the Auto/Cflex machine. I should have the software soon."



"The latest version from Respironics which is required for the new Remstar Auto with C-flex is Ver. 1.4, Rev. 3."

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Post by Spiritus » Sun Dec 19, 2004 9:57 am

Here's what i've learned: the AutoSet Spirit can gather data on snore, and quite a lot more, but you need the ResLink in order to get to that kind of detail. When I install the AutoScan software today, I'll check to see if there's a PDF manual. If so, I'll post some excerpts from it.

Rob

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Post by Paul B » Sun Dec 19, 2004 10:23 am

Data provided by Reslink:

ResLink – stay connected

ResLink is a whole new way to stay connected with your customers and clinical networks at all stages of the SDB (sleep- disordered breathing ) Therapy Pathway.

The ResLink module simply clips onto the back of the AutoSet Spirit to capture, store, and transfer high –resolution efficacy data. Portable and flexible, resLink can be easily sent out to a patient’s home for a comprehensive review of the patient’s condition when and where you need it. ResLink makes data management simple and cost-effective, helping you optimize the use of your clinical resources.

ResLink offers a wide range of contact relationship, and business opportunities across multiple channels in the area of sleep medicine.


Comprehensive data selection

ResLink provides avaluable information on 9 significant parameters ( including oximetry), for 10 hours each night and 30 days continuously, as required.

The 32 MB SmartMedia Card simultaneously stores a wider data selection. ResLink facilitates clinical decisions with detailed data and summary reports.

Efficacy data includes oximetry, pressure response, leak apneas and hypopneas, minute ventilation, flow limitation, snore, SpO2, and pulse rate.
Oximetry data provies an objective measure that the AutoSet spirit is resolving O2 desaturatin. Oximetry may carry reimbursement benefits.
Reassures patients and clinicians that therapy is progressing effectively.

The first modular therapy management tool

Studies can be done at the patient’s bedside, in their own home, non-intrusively.
Large amounts of data can be easily transported form remote locations, without the patient being inconvenienced.
Hilps optimize the use of your clinical resources.
Portable and robust for easy transport

The first remote software upgrading device

Convenient way for customers to access the latest AutoSet Spirit software versions when required.
Eliminates the need for the AutoSet spirit to be taken to the equipment provider’s location.


ResLink – a whole new world of opportunities

ResLink is the new business and clinical platform for providers of equipment and expertise in sleep medicine. It enables you to build upon existing relationships and develop new opportunities along the SDB Therapy Pathway.


SDB Therapy Pathway

RsLink gives you comprehensive reviewing, monitoring and troubleshooting at every stage of therapy.

Consultation
Screening & Diagnosis
Pressure determination
Therapy trials & troubleshooting
Long-term therapy management & monitoring


TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Dimensions
126mm H x 65mm W x 60mm D

Weight 110 g

Power supply
Maximum power consumption derived from the AutoSet Spirit (ResLink only) 24:30V at 200mA

Housing Construction
Flame retardant engineering thermoplastic

Environmental Conditions
Operating Temperature: +5ºC to +60ºC
Operating Humidity: 10% - 95% non-condensing
Storage and Transport Temperature: -20ºC to +60ºC
Storage and Transport Humidity: 10% - 95%
non-condensing

IEC 60601-1 Classification
class II (double insulation) Type CF

Electromagnetic Compatibility
Product complies with all applicable electromagnetic compatibility requirements (EMC) according to IEC60601-1-2 residential commercial and light industry environments

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