FAQs

Why is it important to use the correct size cuff on my patients?

SunTech Medical Cuffs are designed to meet the AAMI (Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation) clinical standards for blood pressure cuffs. These standards were devised in order to ensure adequate pressure on the artery of the upper arm, which is necessary to produce an accurate blood pressure measurement. If a cuff is used on an arm larger than the specified range, the resulting reading will be falsely high. If a cuff is used on an arm that is smaller than the specified range, the resulting reading will be falsely low.

Why do Plus cuffs have a larger range than a Long cuff?

• Range of fit depends on cuff bladder size.
• According to the American Heart Association, the ideal cuff should have a bladder length that is 80% and a width that is at least 40% of arm circumference. [1] When arm circumference is large, these dimensions are impractical, which has prompted the AHA to suggest adjustments to the 80%/40% rule in these cases.
• Previously, Long cuffs achieved a greater range of fit simply by providing more material to wrap around the arm. Without increasing the bladder size from the standard size cuffs, the range of fit increases, but the occlusion capability of the cuff is limited because of the limited bladder size.
• The new Plus cuffs have a larger bladder, following the AHA guidelines for large arm circumferences. This allows for a much greater range of fit, while maintaining accuracy of blood pressure measurements.

[1] Pickering, T., Hall, J., Appel, L., Falkner, B., Graves, J., Hill, M., Jones, D., Kurtz, T., Sheps, S., Roccella, E. Recommendations for Blood Pressure Measurement in Humans and Experimental Animals. (2005). Hypertension, 45, 142-161.

What is the difference between a standard cuff and a Plus cuff (i.e. Adult and Adult Plus cuffs)?

A Plus cuff has a larger bladder size and longer length, which allows for a greater arm circumference range.

Do you offer private labeling?

For more information on corporate labeling, please contact SunTech by email or by phone:

• US Toll Free: 1.800.421.8626
• Main Line: 01.919.654.2300
• Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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What stress systems can the Tango M2 interface with?

The Tango M2 works with most common stress systems. For a full list, please follow this link: https://suntechmed.com/support/document-library/category/41-interface-notes-for-supported-stress-systems

How can I adjust the brightness of the Tango M2 display?

You can adjust the contrast of the Tango M2 display by following these steps:

1. When the operating screen is displayed, press the SELECT button once. This will bring up the Main Menu screen.
2. Using the UP or DOWN arrows, highlight Monitor Setup and press the SELECT button.
3. Using the UP or DOWN arrows, highlight Brightness and press the SELECT button.
4. Using the UP or DOWN arrows, modify the contrast of the screen. When you are finished, and press the SELECT button to confirm the choice.
5. Using the UP or DOWN arrows, select EXIT twice to return to the operating screen.

Click here to watch a useful video tutorial.

How do I set up the Tango M2 monitor to work with my stress system?

To setup your Tango M2 BP monitor with your stress system, please visit the Tango M2 Interface Notes on the Technical Library page under the Customer Technical Support section of this website. If your stress system is not listed, please contact us.

Click here to watch a useful video tutorial.

The Tango M2 displays a Status Message. What does it mean and what do I do?

There are 2 places where you can find more information about Status Messages:

1. See the eLibrary within your Tango M2 for quick troubleshooting tips. You can find the eLibrary under the Main Menu; select Monitor Setup >E-Library >Status Messages.
2. Look in the Tango M2 User Manual under the Status Messages & Alarms section for details on each Status Message and solution.
3. You may also click here to watch a useful video tutorial.

The Tango M2 monitor returns a result of 0/0 after blood pressure (BP) measurements. What do I need to do to get a BP reading?

There are certain noisy conditions where the Tango M2 cannot accurately measure BP. When the Tango M2 encounters these situations, it returns a reading of 0/0. Microphone placement is critical for reliable operation of the Tango M2; there are many places to find cuff placement help.

1. See the eLibrary within your Tango M2 for quick cuff placement tutorials. You can find the eLibrary under the Main Menu; select Monitor Setup >E-Library > Tutorials.
2. Look in the Tango M2 User Manual under the Using Tango M2 during a Stress Test section for details on each type of cuff; the Orbit-K and the Single Patient Use (SPU) kit.
3. Follow the instructions in the Cuff Tutorial (located on the SunTech Medical website under Support > Product Training & Tutorials) for correct microphone placement.

Click here to watch a useful video tutorial.

Can I use a heart rate or blood pressure simulator to test whether the Tango M2 is working correctly with my stress system?

You cannot use a heart rate or blood pressure simulator to test whether the Tango M2 is working with your stress system. The Tango M2 monitor requires that the ECG signal and the Korotkoff sounds, collected by the microphone in the cuff, originate from the same source, meaning the patient.

How do I clean the Orbit-K cuff after a stress test?

Please refer to the instructions for use.

My Tango M2 displays a message, “Please Verify Calibration” or “Equipment Maintenance and Calibration Required.” What do I do?

Verification of Pressure Calibration is required every year to maintain the accuracy of the Tango M2’s BP readings. You will need to contact the SunTech Medical Technical Support for help. In addition, the following items will be needed to verify calibration.

Equipment Required:

1. Calibrated electronic manometer or equivalent.
2. 500mL volume or the Orbit-K Adult Plus cuff wrapped around something that will not break or crush (no glass).
3. Hand Inflation Bulb with bleed valve.
4. Tubing, Tee pieces, and miscellaneous connectors or you can order the T-Tube Kit (SunTech Part # 98-0030-00).

end faq

Why is it important to use the correct size cuff on my patients?

SunTech Medical Cuffs are designed to meet the AAMI (Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation) clinical standards for blood pressure cuffs. These standards were devised in order to ensure adequate pressure on the artery of the upper arm, which is necessary to produce an accurate blood pressure measurement. If a cuff is used on an arm larger than the specified range, the resulting reading will be falsely high. If a cuff is used on an arm that is smaller than the specified range, the resulting reading will be falsely low

You can find out more by clicking here for a useful video tutorial.

How do I clean the Orbit-K cuff after a stress test?

Please refer to the instructions for use.

How do I clean the K-sound Microphone?

The K-sound Microphone can be cleaned using a mild disinfectant wipe (e.g. Sani-Cloth®) and letting the microphone line dry.

You can find out more by clicking here for a useful video tutorial.

Will my Tango+ K-sound Microphone work with my Tango M2?

No, the connector of the K-sound microphone used with the Tango+ is different than the connector of the K-sound microphone used with the Tango M2. Please see the Technical Specs Tab to view which Orbit-K cuffs will work with which stress BP monitor.

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For what indications does Medicare reimburse for a Cardiovascular/Exercise Stress Test?

The indications are as follows:

• To determine the location, presence and severity of exercise induced myocardial ischemia
• Evaluate potential for rhythm disturbances
• Evaluate hemodynamic responses to activity
• Evaluate the effect of medical or interventional therapy
• Prescribe appropriate activity guidelines
• Pre-operative evaluation of patients at high risk for coronary artery disease who are scheduled to undergo general anesthesia and/or undergo a surgical procedure which places them at risk for a sudden cardiac event.
• Establish prognosis and management decisions following an uncomplicated myocardial infarction.
• Determine whether underlying coronary artery disease is the etiology of unexplained left ventricular dysfunction
• Assess for recurrent ischemia in patients with prior percutaneious intervention who are at increased risk for restenosis.

What is the amount of reimbursement?

The rates for reimbursement can vary by geographical region, insurance company policies, and patient conditions. It is important that you contact your Medicare contractor to verify reimbursement amounts for your region.

end faq

What is included when I purchase a Vet20 BP system?

The system includes the BP monitor, patient hose, 6 BP cuffs (sizes #1 to #6), a product manual and 4 AA batteries.

What power options are available?

The SunTech Vet20 can be powered by batteries or an AC adapter.

How many measurements can I store in Memory?

You can store up to 50 measurements. The monitor has a revolving memory. When you take your 51st measurement, it will be listed as measurement #1.

How do I delete BP data from memory?

Select the Memory button and touch the Delete button. Before the memory is cleared, you will be asked to confirm or cancel the deletion. When you clear the Memory, you delete all measurements.

For medium-sized dogs, which animal mode do I choose?

Use cuff size as the determination factor. If a #3 cuff or smaller is the best fit, choose small animal mode. If #4 or larger, choose large animal mode.

How do I choose the correct cuff size?

Wrap the cuff around the patient’s limb and make sure the index line falls within the range marker. If two different cuff sizes fit the patient, choose the larger size.

How long will the batteries last?

250+ BP measurements can be expected from typical alkaline batteries. Lithium batteries will provide even more measurements. Battery life is very dependent on the touch screen display ON time. To maximize life, SunTech suggests setting the Auto OFF timer to 1 minute.

Can I use this monitor on awake and anesthetized animals?

Yes. The SunTech Vet20 can be be used on anesthetized animals as well as awake animals.

How do I keep the cuff from slipping down the limb or coming off?

Attach the cuff as tight as possible. Extra attention will be needed on species with dense or thick fur. If the cuff will not stay attached, check the Velcro for fur and remove if possible.

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How many measurements can I store in Memory?

You can store up to 960 measurements. The monitor has a revolving memory. When you take your 961st measurement, it will be listed as measurement #1.

How do I delete data from memory?

Select the Memory button and touch the Delete button. Before the memory is cleared, you will be asked to confirm or cancel the deletion. When you clear the Memory, you delete all measurements for all parameters.

For medium-sized dogs, which animal mode do I choose?

Use cuff size as the determination factor. If a #3 cuff or smaller is the best fit, choose small animal mode. If #4 or larger, choose large animal mode.

How do I choose the correct cuff size?

Wrap the cuff around the patient’s limb and make sure the index line falls within the range marker. If two different cuff sizes fit the patient, choose the larger size.

How long will the battery last?

When interval BP measurements are set for every 5 minutes, a fully charged battery should last at least 4 hours before requiring recharging. If only taking manual BP measurements, a fully charged battery should last for at least 150 BP measurements before requiring recharging. Fully charging the battery should take under 6 hours. Battery life is very dependent on the touch screen display ON time. To maximize life, SunTech suggests setting the Auto OFF timer to 1 minute.

Can I use this monitor on awake and anesthetized animals?

Yes. The Vet25 can be used on anesthetized animals as well as awake animals.

How do I keep the cuff from slipping down the limb or coming off?

Attach the cuff as tight as possible. Extra attention will be needed on species with dense or thick fur. If the cuff will not stay attached, check the hook & loop for fur and remove if possible.

Are there other power options?

Yes. The device is provided with a mains power supply that recharges the internal battery when connected. When the monitor is not connected to the power supply, the battery will allow the unit to be portable for use.

What are the minimum and maximum cat & dog weights when taking measurements?

There are none. Any cat or dog that has a limb that fits within the cuff ranges is acceptable.

end faq

How many measurements can I store in Memory?

You can store up to 960 measurements. The monitor has a revolving memory. When you take your 961st measurement, it will be listed as measurement #1.

How do I delete data from memory?

Select the Memory button and touch the Delete button. Before the memory is cleared, you will be asked to confirm or cancel the deletion. When you clear the Memory, you delete all measurements for all parameters.

For medium-sized dogs, which animal mode do I choose?

Use cuff size as the determination factor. If a #3 cuff or smaller is the best fit, choose small animal mode. If #4 or larger, choose large animal mode.

How do I choose the correct cuff size?

Wrap the cuff around the patient’s limb and make sure the index line falls within the range marker. If two different cuff sizes fit the patient, choose the larger size.

How long will the battery last?

During continuous monitoring of SpO2 and temperature, with an Interval BP set for every 5 minutes, a fully charged battery should last at least 4 hours before requiring recharging. If only taking manual BP measurements, a fully charged battery should last for at least 150 BP measurements before requiring recharging. Fully charging the battery should take under 6 hours. Battery life is very dependent on the touch screen display ON time. To maximize life, SunTech suggests setting the Auto OFF timer to 1 minute.

Can I use this monitor on awake and anesthetized animals?

Yes. The Vet30 can be used on anesthetized animals as well as awake animals.

How do I keep the cuff from slipping down the limb or coming off?

Attach the cuff as tight as possible. Extra attention will be needed on species with dense or thick fur. If the cuff will not stay attached, check the hook & loop for fur and remove if possible.

Are there other power options?

Yes. The device is provided with a mains power supply that recharges the internal battery when connected. When the monitor is not connected to the power supply, the battery will allow the unit to be portable for use.

What are the minimum and maximum cat & dog weights when taking measurements with the Vet30?

There are none. Any cat or dog that has a limb that fits within the cuff ranges is acceptable.

end faq

What is included when I purchase a Vet20 BP system?

The system includes the BP monitor, patient hose, 6 BP cuffs (sizes #1 to #6), a product manual and 4 AA batteries.

How do I choose the correct cuff size?

Wrap the cuff around the patient’s limb and make sure the index line falls within the range marker. If two different cuff sizes fit the patient, choose the larger size.

How do I keep the cuff from slipping down the limb or coming off?

Attach the cuff as tight as possible. Extra attention will be needed on species with dense or thick fur. If the cuff will not stay attached, check the Velcro for fur and remove if possible.

end faq

Should an oscillometric NIBP simulator be used to evaluate the accuracy of Advantage NIBP modules?

No. NIBP simulator target values should never be considered as a standard of accuracy. All NIBP simulator manuals explain or should explain that target values are approximations and should only be used for measuring repeatability. Accuracy can only be measured using human subjects as described in the accuracy requirements and test methods given in the AAMI/SP10 Standard for Automated Sphygmomanometers. All SunTech Medical NIBP algorithms are tuned specifically for use on live human or animal subjects, not NIBP simulators. Please refer to the white paper “NIBP Simulator Limits with the Advantage OEM NIBP Module Series” for more details on how simulators are to be used. Included in that paper are a description of a correct setup and a comparison of five common NIBP simulators. Further information on interaction with simulators is also available in Appendix B in the Advantage 2.0 and Mini Operators Manual.

Are the Advantage OEM BP series of modules field programmable?

The Advantage OEM Blood Pressure modules are field programmable. Additional features and improvements can now be uploaded to the module via the RS232 or TTL serial communication interface without any jumpers, special cables or complicated instructions. This saves time and money since modules no longer need to be returned to the factor every time new features or improvements become available.

Will electrical noise from the pump ever effect the acquisition of BP data?

The pump is never on while collecting data. Thus any noise generated by the pump, regardless of the model, cannot contaminate or alter the oscillometric data used to build the curve.

Other than the size, are there any differences between Advantage 2.0 and the Advantage Mini?

While there are small differences between the devices, the Mini was designed to be a functionally equivalent but physically smaller version of the 2.0, and provides the option of mounting the pump and valves separately from the electronics. All functional parts of the hardware relating to the acquisition of BP are identical. Thus with any specific version of the firmware code, operation of the two units will be identical. The Advantage 2 has RS232 and TTL serial communication interface options. The Advantage Mini has no RS232 level communications option in its original configuration, therefore it lacks the RS232 level translator chip and ancillary components. Please refer to the operator's manual for complete description, instructions, warnings, cautions and complete specifications.

Do the Advantage series of OEM NIBP modules meet AAMI SP10 - 2002?

The Advantage series of OEM Non-Invasive Blood Pressure modules does meet AAMI SP10 -2002 specifications. They also meet the EN60601-1, EN60601-2-30, EN1060-1 and EN1060-3 standards.

Does the Safety processor have a separate pressure feedback mechanism from the control process?

Both processors have separate connections. If the safety microprocessor detects either an overpressure or timeout condition, it will immediately override the BP microprocessor and and cut power to the pump and valves thus deflating the system.

end faq