Zimmer MedizinSystems Z Wave

Z Wave is Zimmer MedizinSysteme's radial shockwave device for aesthetic body treatments, sold today as the Z Wave Pro. It sends acoustic pressure waves through an applicator head into the tissue, where they spread out radially. Zimmer positions it as a stand-alone treatment for the appearance of cellulite and as an add-on after fat reduction treatments such as cryolipolysis, radiofrequency, ultrasound or laser. It uses no laser or light source.

Zimmer builds Z Wave around an electromagnetic generator that fires a projectile, with no air compressor. Zimmer calls this Soft Shot technology and says its projectile has about five times the mass of a pneumatic system's, so it needs less acceleration for the same force. Zimmer's German specifications list a frequency of 1 to 22 Hz, energy of 60 to 185 mJ, a 12 inch color touchscreen with a control knob for energy and frequency, 10 preset treatment areas and 99 favorite program slots. Treatment uses a 39 mm applicator head, a silicone protection cap, lotion and a multidirectional foot switch.

Zimmer USA sells two versions. The Z Wave Pro ships with two handpieces, while the Z Wave Q has one water cooled handpiece that Zimmer says runs about half as loud and does not need swapping during long sessions. A single water cooled handpiece points to a Q, so confirm on the label. Zimmer rates each handpiece's shockwave generator for 2,000,000 shots and warrants the device unit for two years.

Because each handpiece has a rated shot life, buyers will ask how many shots each handpiece has delivered and whether any has been replaced. They will also check the applicator head and cap for wear, test the foot switch, and ask for the software version and service records. Photos of the serial label, the touchscreen and each handpiece help a dealer identify the exact configuration.