Fillauer SkiTrek User manual

Intended Use
The SkiTrek was designed for several types of activities that use ski
poles or walking / hiking poles. The design accommodates poles for
both “Alpine” and “Nordic” skiing, as well as poles for hiking-trekking
activities. This terminal device (TD) will easily connect via any USA
standard prosthetic wrist (1/2-20 thread).
The device is intended for single user/patient use only.
Performance Characteristics
SkiTrek
Product
Number SKITREK
Length 3.6 in. (9.1 cm)
Width 2.0 in. (5.1 cm)
Height 5.5 in. (14 cm)
Weight 7.5 oz. (213 g)
Color Black
Thread ½-20
Age Youth through adult
Limb Description Trans-radial & mid-length - long
Trans-humeral
Indications/Contraindications
Passive gripping TDs like the SkiTrek have limited scope and
application and are oriented around performing well in very specic
activities and applications as listed above. They typically provide
holding control using mechanical capture mechanisms or synthetic
polymers that exhibit good elasticity for clasping around handles
and objects with cylindrical features. The devices may or may not
provide a level of gripping force that is equivalent to the human
hand, and they are designed to release during an application of
excess force or by specic physical manipulation. These devices
provide for good control with a higher margin of safety and risk than
other types of TDs that have true locking function.
Finally, all prosthetic terminal devices, have inherent dangers of
entanglement or engagement where release can be compromised
because of their physical exterior design, unique unforgiving
materials, and inanimate lack of “feel”. Wearing an upper extremity
prosthesis does involve risk! Training and therapy are always
recommended when using a prosthesis, especially when using
new or unique technology or changing prosthetic system
operative controls.
Storage and Handling
It is recommended that the SkiTrek is stored in a cool, clean,
dry environment away from harsh chemicals (chlorine, acids,
acetone,etc.).
Warnings and Precautions
CAUTION: Abnormal or improper environmental
conditions will lead to malfunctioning and damage of
the prosthesis and is not covered under the warranty
of the device. This prosthetic component must not be
subjected to dust/debris, liquids other than fresh water,
abrasives, vibration, or activities which would damage
the biological limb. Do not allow debris or liquids to
remain in the prosthesis and its components during use.
Rinse the TD with fresh water and dry after exposure.
CAUTION: Passive Gripping TDs are waterproof to 1
meter; however, if submerged, these should be rinsed
with fresh water and dried immediately to remove salt,
chlorine, or debris.
SkiTrek
Product Manual

Qualied Provider
Attachment, adjustment, alignment, and delivery of this device
must be performed by or under the direct supervision of a qualied
prosthetist. Unless stated in this manual, any such activities should
not be attempted by the user and will potentially void the device
warranty.
Specications and Preparations
BeforeUse (Risk Management for
Installation andCalibration)
Preparation
Consider the following factors as you determine the most
appropriate technology and prosthesis design for your client:
• Does the user understand the function and safety features of the
device?
• What other terminal devices will be used with this prosthesis?
• In what types of environments will the device(s) be used?
• In what positions will the person use the device?
• How will the user switch terminal devices? Will quick-disconnect
be helpful?
• For what other activities might this device be helpful?
• Will the person benet from additional training in the use of the
device?
Installation
Passive Gripping TDs may be installed in any Fillauer wrist unit with a
½-20 thread. Follow the instructions provided with the wrist unit for
best results.
Cabling
The SkiTrek can be used with a prosthetic cable system or without.
Using a body powered prosthetic cable will allow you to simply
reach forward to extend the pole. Without a cable, the pole must be
“pendulum” swung out in front and then will retract automatically
when disengaged from the ground or snow surface. The cable
attachment accepts both 9/32 and 3/16 inch diameter cable ball
systems.
Pole Modication
All poles will require the removal of their standard grip. Some
poles will require a length adjustment to ensure that both arms
are positioned equally distant from the ground or snow surface.
Most poles will require re-sizing their diameter at the grip area so
that a uniform mating- interface is created between the pole and
the SkiTrek prosthetic terminal device. Telescoping brass tubing
has been included with the SkiTrek to provide for re-sizing options.
In certain instances, the surface “outside diameter” of the pole at
the grip area will need to be reduced slightly to t this brass tube
system. Alternatively in certain cases simple electrical black plastic
tape or equivalent can be used to increase the outside diameter of
the pole to help mate with the female pole receiver in the bottom of
the SkiTrek. Suitable glue may also be used to permanently secure a
modied pole into the largest diameter brass tube which is precisely
sized to slide into the female cylindrical receiver on the bottom of
the SkiTrek.
A strip of adhesive-backed “hook” Velcro (included with device) will
be added onto the pole below the SkiTrek to help capture the “loop”
Velcro sheath which helps secure the pole into the SkiTrek.
Please note that the SkiTrek does not provide a ski boot type
“release” of the pole. The pole will typically only release when
the end of the pole gets “snagged” and the pole will pull out of
the SkiTrek.
This is also the manner in which a downhill (alpine) skier rides on a
chair lift by removing the pole from the SkiTrek and carrying the pole
in the manner a skier normally carries the poles during such a lift
ride, held in one hand or positioned across the seat of the lift chair.
Pole grips are typically glued or bonded securely to the pole shaft.
They can be removed by using a sharp razor knife but this can be
a dicult process. The pole shaft must be completely free of grip
material and have a smooth surface. A belt sander can be used to
more quickly grind away the grip. Be careful not to grind into the
pole surface and gouge the shaft if at all possible. Approximately 4
inches of pole will be used when the job is complete. Four inches is
the depth of the inside of the pole receiver in the SkiTrek. The brass
tubing that we provide is 5 inches long providing some excess which
may need to be trimmed o for the nal assembly.
Once the grip is completely removed, try to determine which of the
brass tubes will t over the pole. The goal is to have the largest
diameter brass tube be the outside surface. Pole diameters vary
in size to some extent so:
1. You may need to reduce the outside diameter (OD) slightly
or build it up to t the system. If you are reducing the OD be
careful to reduce it uniformly and do not compromise the wall
thickness too much.
2. ALSO, it is best to cut the pole length down before you begin
changing the diameter so that when you alter the diameter it
is only in the four-inch area needed to t into the SkiTrek. This
will save time and labor.

3. Once the pole is re-sized, epoxy or similar glue can be used to
fuse the brass cylinder(s) to the pole permanently.
4. The “hook” Velcro can then be wrapped once around the
pole just below the brass tubing. The Velcro “loop” sheath will
then connect to and cover this strip securing the pole into the
SkiTrek.
Extra sets of telescoping brass tubes are available from Fillauer
TRS. The SkiTrek comes with tubing for one pole modication.
Adjustment
The SkiTrek is provided with the retraction bungee cord already
secured at one end. The bungee cord is used to keep the pole in a
retracted position, clear of the snow or ground. The bungee cord
may stretch or fatigue over time but is easily replaced. Most local
hardware stores carry bungee cord that will t the SkiTrek or bungee
can be directly ordered from Fillauer TRS.
To adjust the tension in the system, pull and stretch the bungee cord
to increase resistance. Experiment with dierent tensions before
you nish completely and trim o the excess bungee material. We
suggest leaving some excess on each end to allow you to readjust
the bungee cord system to the resistance you desire. A simple Allen
wrench (included) is used to tighten and secure the bungee into the
body of the SkiTrek.
PLEASE do not over-tension the set screws and strip out the
threads inside the SkiTrek. Firmly tightening the set screws will
suce.
Compatability
Fillauer TRS Passive Gripping TDs have been evaluated with and are
recommended for use with Fillauer wrists that have a ½-20 internal
thread. They may be used with any equivalent ½-20 threaded wrist
units; however, damage caused by other manufacturers wrist units
is not covered under warranty of this device.
Care and Maintenance
These devices require minimal maintenance and care other than
keeping them clean and inspecting them before using. Polymer
rubbers can deteriorate over time so inspection for cracking or
“checking” in the material is recommended. Cleaning regularly is
recommended. Treat these devices like your hand from a sanitation
perspective. If damage is apparent consult with your prosthetic
professional for potential replacement of parts or the entire device,
as might be needed. These products are highly reliable when treated
and cared for properly.
Disposal / Waste Handling
The product must be disposed of in accordance with applicable local
laws and regulations. If the product has been exposed to bacteria or
other infectious agents, it must be disposed of in accordance with
applicable laws and regulations for the handling of contaminated
material.
All metal components may be removed and recycled at the
appropriate recycling facility.
Warranty
This product has a 12-month warranty against manufacturer defects

User Instructions
The providing health care professional must review the following
information directly with the user.
Preparation for User
Consider the following factors as you prepare for this device:
• Are you able to don and to do the device independently?
• Are you able to switch terminal devices independently?
• Are you able to access services from a skilled occupational
therapist for additional training if needed?
Warnings and Precautions for the User
CAUTION: Abnormal or improper environmental
conditions will lead to malfunctioning and damage of
the prosthesis and is not covered under the warranty
of the device. This prosthetic component must not be
subjected to dust/debris, liquids other than fresh water,
abrasives, vibration, or activities which would damage
the biological limb. Do not allow debris or liquids to
remain in the prosthesis and its components during use.
Rinse the wrist with fresh water and dry immediately
after exposure.
CAUTION: Passive Gripping TDs are waterproof to 1
meter; however, if submerged, these should be rinsed
with fresh water and dried immediately to remove salt,
chlorine, or debris.
Serious Incidents
In the unlikely event a serious incident occurs in relation to the use
of the device, users should seek immediate medical help and contact
their prosthetist at the earliest possible convenience. Clinicians
should contact their local Fillauer representative immediately in the
event of any device failure.
www.llauer.com
Fillauer LLC
2710 Amnicola Highway
Chattanooga, TN 37406
423.624.0946
Fillauer Europe
Kung Hans väg 2
192 68 Sollentuna, Sweden
[phone]
Customer Support
Americas, Oceania, Japan
Fillauer TRS
3090 Sterling Circle, Studio A
Boulder, Colorado 80301
303.444.4720
Europe, Africa, Asia
Fillauer Europe
Kung Hans väg 2
192 68 Sollentuna, Sweden
[phone]
EC REP
© 2023 Fillauer LLC
M110/03-09-23/Rev.1