Vivistim Stroke Recovery: The Process
& Our Role 

FAM Rehabilitation does not perform the Vivistim implant procedure. We provide the critical specialized therapy required before and after the procedure.

If you are considering the Vivistim device for stroke recovery, it is important to understand the road map. This is a multi-step process involving your therapist, a neurosurgeon, and your insurance.

Step 1: The FAM Evaluation The process begins at FAM. We perform a comprehensive evaluation, including the "Fugl-Meyer" assessment—a lengthy, specialized outcome measure that analyzes your arm movement, strength, and range of motion. We submit this data to Vivistim to establish your baseline.

Step 2: Neurosurgeon Consultation Once we have completed your evaluation, you will see a neurosurgeon (such as Dr. Rami at AtlantiCare). The surgeon will review our data and perform their own assessment to determine if you are a candidate for the procedure.

Step 3: Approval & Procedure If the neurosurgeon deems you a candidate, the request is submitted to insurance. Currently, Medicare has been approving these procedures. The Vivistim device is implanted via a minimally invasive procedure.

Step 4: Healing & Activation Following the procedure, there is typically a two-week healing period. Once cleared, the real work begins.

Step 5: Intensive Rehabilitation at FAM The device requires "stemming"—highly repetitive motion training that retrains the brain.

• Frequency: You will attend therapy 3 times a week for 4 weeks.

• Duration: Sessions are intensive, lasting 90 minutes (often involving Occupational Therapy).

• The Work: This is active rehab. You will perform hundreds of repetitions of specific motions while the device stimulates the brain to aid in neuro-recovery.