Question
Please discuss ''LasR™'' hearing instrument shells, the technology, and please explain what benefits we should expect from this technology?
Answer
LasR™ is a new technology from Siemens, for producing hearing instrument shells. This technology uses three-dimensional laser scans to capture the physical impression of the ear, which you provided.
After scanning, the LasR software draws a ''point-cloud'' image of impressions in three-dimensional space. The raw data is used to create a surface over the virtual impression and vent and receiver holes can be easily positioned, or repositioned, as needed. The shell is made layer-by-layer following the digital path lines created from the three-dimensional scanning process. Laser energy then heats a nylon powder to a temperature above its melting point fusing the particles into the final product. This process is repeated until the shell is complete.
The LasR shell is available in standard tan color that is compatible with all faceplate colors. The shell is slightly textured and has a matte finish. Because the shell is made from a medical grade polymer (nylon) material, it is stronger than UV shell material, and meets strict bio- compatibility standards.
The LasR shell precisely follows the natural contours of the ear which were captured by the impression, combined with the textured surface, resulting in better retention of the instrument in the ear, and better retention yields a reduction in feedback. The matte finish is also beneficial to those patients with dexterity issues because it is easier to grip.
*Patients report LasR shells are more comfortable to wear as compared to shells manufactured in the traditional way. Overall satisfaction of users with LasR instruments is higher than that of users of conventional instruments.
LasR shells are now standard in all canals and half shell instruments, at all Siemens facilities. Ordering these instruments from Siemens is exactly the same as before, requiring only an impression of the complete ear. Just make sure you use silicone material, of any color, for the impression. Do not send impressions made with powder and liquid materials, as they will not scan.
Lori Timmerman, MA/CCC-A, Staff Audiologist, Siemens Hearing Instruments
Bio: In her position as the Staff Audiologist, Lori provides audiologic support to all Siemens Hearing Care Professionals. Prior to joining Siemens, Lori worked at two ENT practices and a hearing aid clinic as a dispensing clinical audiologist. Lori received her Master's degree in Audiology from Ball State University.
*Velde 2001. Unpublished Siemens Hearing Instruments in-house data from 150 hearing instrument users. Additional data available upon request.
To visit the Siemens Hearing Instruments website, click here.