Malnutrition, obesity, Type 2 diabetes and all their consequences are among the world's major medical challenges of the 21st century. Nevertheless, the assessment of a patient's state of health and nutritional status is still based on classic vital signs and BMI (Body Mass Index). As critical parameters of body composition are not measured, the opportunities to initiate preventive measures or to optimize treatment remain unused. The seca medical Vital Signs Analyzer (mVSA) compensates for the weaknesses of BMI and increases the potential of non-invasive, ad hoc diagnostics to a completely new level.
Bioimpedance and vital signs analysis – A dynamic duo for optimized diagnostics
The seca mVSA is the world's first Spot-Check Monitor which measures the four classic vital signs of blood pressure, SpO2, pulse and temperature plus body composition consisting of fat mass, muscle mass and body water by means of Bioimpedance Analysis (BIA). seca had the precision of these BIA parameters validated against respective gold standards in a multi-center study involving different ethnic groups. The options of combining data from body composition and vital signs yield a much faster and more differentiated assessment of the patient's state of health and nutrition status than is possible with vital signs and BMI alone. At the end of the very brief examination, the doctor immediately has all the information required for decision-making.
Cross-indication gains for diagnostics and treatment
The seca mVSA has added value beyond the treatment of obesity, malnutrition and diabetes. Cross-indication patients and users benefit from the findings, simple operation and especially from the combination options of measured data as the following examples show:
Fluid Management – Timely restoration of hydration status
Controlled rehydration treatment for patients suffering from exsiccosis reduces the load on the heart. With blood pressure and BIA measurements and regular monitoring of the BIVA chart (Bioelectrical Impedance Vector Analysis (BIVA), which provides graphic representation of the patient's fluid level and cellular mass), medical staff can see whether a healthy hydration level has been achieved. The simultaneous, non-invasive BIA and blood pressure measurement with the seca mVSA saves time and offers a reliable ad hoc assessment of the patient.
Heart Failure – Optimized management of diuretics with dual measurement
Edemas due to heart failure are easier to detect through the results of the seca mVSA. The regular measurement of body composition and blood pressure during diuretic therapy provides valuable information on the health status of the patient. The administration of diuretics can be better controlled through the dual measurement of blood pressure and extracellular water.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
In addition to the general check of oxygen saturation via pulse oximetry (SpO2), it is also sensible in this case to examine the general body composition (e.g. phase angle) to evaluate the entire situation. An improvement of the general health status and an associated rise of the phase angle can be achieved through movement (aerobic exercise). Physical training can improve body composition and the patient’s well-being. Monitoring the phase angle and regular SpO2 measurements using the seca mVSA should accompany these therapies.
Direct data integration in EMR increases efficiency and safety in hospital and medical office routines
The monitoring of vital signs is one of the most time-consuming activities in hospitals and medical practices. The seca mVSA was developed to support these routine checks and lighten the workload. All vital parameters and BIA data are captured quickly by one device and stored directly in the digital patient files. As a part of the seca 360° wireless product world, the seca mVSA provides automatic transmission of height and weight from compatible scales and measuring systems to the device. The benefits are clear: efficiency improvements, time-saving procedures and paperless and error-free transmission of measurements.
