RS-STIM is an innovative sequential 4-channel electrical stimulation medical device developed by RS REHAB. RS-STIM reproduces the same muscle movements as those used when swallowing actual food for patients with dysphagia, significantly enhancing rehabilitation outcomes and providing electrical stimulation that allows immediate swallowing of food.
In January 2024, it was designated for “New Health Technology Assessment Deferment” by the National Evidence-based Healthcare Collaborating Agency of Korea (Notice No. 2024-44, technology name: Electrical stimulation therapy for dysphagia swallowing function using sequential 4 channels).
It is currently being progressively introduced, starting with tertiary general hospitals nationwide, and is undergoing FDA certification procedures for entry into the North American market.
 
RS-STIM, a 4-channel neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) device for dysphagia treatment, showed significant improvements in VDS, FOIS, and PAS scores compared to conventional 2-channel devices, in clinical trials. Specifically, in rehabilitation therapy, it resulted in a 2.6-fold increase in swallowing function score and a 2.1-fold reduction in aspiration rate compared to traditional methods. Furthermore, when used as a compensatory treatment for mealtime swallowing, it improved swallowing function score by 2.9 times and reduced aspiration rate by 2.3 times.
 
To enable clinicians to accurately and quickly apply electrical stimulation for 4-channel electrical stimulation therapy, RS-STIM Electrodes Pads Type C and Type N were designed. The RS-STIM Electrode Type C, a dedicated pad for RS-STIM, is designed for the suprahyoid region, ensuring precise application of channels 1 and 2 currents. It also features a strap to prevent detachment during treatment. The RS-STIM Electrode Type N is designed for the thyroid cartilage, ensuring precise application of channels 3 and 4 currents, and is adjustable to accommodate different neck lengths.
 
The deferred evaluation new medical technology treatment, “Sequential 4-Channel Electrical Stimulation Therapy for Swallowing Function in Dysphagia,” began in September 2024 with 55 sessions per month and increased to 2,200 sessions by June 2025. We are working to ensure that more patients can benefit from the treatment by expanding indications and other applications in the future.