Respironics Launches My Life Series
Respironics recently introduced the My Life™ series of masks, a new line of interface products designed to better fit the lives of home care providers, sleep lab professionals and end-users. OptiLife, the first mask in the new series, was designed for ease of use and is ideal for side sleepers.
"Consumers today are demanding products that fit their unique profiles and lifestyles, and we designed the My Life series specifically with that in mind," said Stan Jankowski, U.S. marketing manager, sleep-disordered breathing. "In trials and focus groups involving home care providers, sleep lab professionals and patients, we listened to our customers to gain valuable feedback to develop and confidently bring this first mask of the new series to market. Customers and patients played an integral part in designing OptiLife." The result is an easy-to-fit, easy-to-assemble mask designed to enhance user compliance.
OptiLife features a new headgear design with no buckles that solely uses the nose to support the seal. A chin support band provides a soft foundation for the seal and eliminates unnecessary nasal irritation, pressure or pulling. The flexible headgear and chin support band allow the mask to be put on and adjusted with little effort. In fact, the mask can be put on with one hand, making it a practical option for users with limited mobility.
The mask also features pillow cushions that come in four sizes (petite, small, medium and large) to ensure a seal for a wide range of users. OptiLife, which weighs only 2.4 ounces, offers effective therapy while keeping the forehead and vision area open. The open design makes sleep studies easier by leaving the forehead open for polysomnographic leads. A tube management clip helps secure the tube to the headgear or the user's clothing and, along with the chin support band, provides a secure fit and ensures mask stability. The exhalation port offers quiet and diffused airflow, while two headgear slots allow additional options to improve mask seal and comfort.
"Participants in our trials were most impressed by the OptiLife interface for its comfort and simplicity. Our new mask has fewer parts than typical masks. Patients were pleased that the interface worked extremely well for sleeping on either side. They also gave positive feedback on the interface's exceptionally quiet performance, lightweight design and ease of use," said Jankowski.
This article originally appeared in the February 2007 issue of HME Business.