Mirage Liberty Chat Transcript Summary

June 20, 2007

Tonight our expert guest speakers will be Allen Ehrlich, Director, Product Management, Americas and Elaine Woldrich, Product Manager, Masks.

Editors note: Mirage Liberty masks may be purchased online at the Talk About Sleep Store. We thank you for your support of Talk About Sleep!

1. Can you tell us about the new Mirage Liberty?
2. What are the key benefits/features of the Mirage Liberty?
3. How many cushion/frame sizes are offered with the new Mirage Liberty?
4. What type of users would benefit from Mirage Liberty?
5. What mask do you recommend for users who feel claustrophobic with full face masks?
6. What makes the nasal pillows unique?
7. What is Trampoline Action?
8. How do you know when the pillows are properly inserted into the cushion?
9. My nostrils are different sizes, will the Liberty mask be able to accommodate my needs?
10. The nasal pillow inserts look much longer in the picture than other nasal pillows I have used, do they insert further into the nostrils than others?
11. How do I clean the nasal pillows?
12. What are the sterilization guidelines?
13. I was looking at a picture of the Liberty online and was wondering what the series of small holes are on the left and right sides of the front of the mask? If they are ventilation holes, should I be concerned about noise?
14. Is the Mirage Liberty quieter than the UMFFM?
15. Do all manufacturers use this ISO standard?
16. How is the new mask quieter than the Ultra Mirage full face mask?
17. What is the benefit of the mouth cushion?
18. Is there a cushion clip like your other full face masks?
19. Is the headgear material breathable like your other Mirage mask systems?
20. What makes Breathe-O-Prene better?
21. What makes the Mirage Liberty headgear effective?
22. Can the mask easily be removed in case of an emergency?
23. Headgear tends to bunch on my head. Do you have a small headgear?
24. What is the purpose of the short tube?
25. How does the short tube attach to the mask?
26. How often should the short tube be replaced?
27. Where is the Anti-Asphyxia Valve (AAV) located?
28. What is the purpose of the Anti-Asphyxia Valve?
29. The AAV looks the same as the Mirage Quattro, can they be interchanged?
30. How do I determine what size my mask is when I have to replace it?
31. Is the Mirage Liberty covered under insurance similar to other full face masks?
32. What will the new codes be?
33. Is there a way to clean the Velcro strips? After time, they become less sticky.
34. Is the headgear available in different colors or sizes?
35. Is there a fitting template for the Mirage Liberty?
36. Does it come in a travel bag?
37. I know mask cushions and pillows wear out and need replacing every 3-6 months, but how long should I expect the mask frame and headgear to last before replacing?
38. Is the unique material used for the Liberty pillows going to wear out quicker than most nasal pillows? Will I need to replace it more often?
39. Does the new mask have pressure ports?
40. Does the Mirage Liberty come with a user guide to help me understand how to use it?
41. What mask setting do you use on the AutoSet™ flow generators?
42. Can you use the Mirage Liberty with a ResMed AutoSet or EPR™ device?
43. Can you use the Mirage Liberty with VPAP Adapt SV™?
44. How much does the Mirage Liberty cost?
45. Is the Mirage Liberty approved for multi-patient, multi-use?
46. What type of soap should the Mirage Liberty be washed with?
47. Is the Mirage Liberty latex-free?
48. Can I order spare parts for the Mirage Liberty?
49. What has been the general feedback about Mirage Liberty so far?
50. What should I do if I hear air leaks?
51. What is the easiest way to remove the Mirage Liberty?
52. When adjusting the headgear straps, which one should be adjusted first?
53. At what pressures can the Mirage Liberty be used with your flow generators?
54. What setting should be used on ResMed flow generators?

 

1. Can you tell us about the new Mirage Liberty?
   The new Mirage Liberty full face mask is the first combination of nasal pillows with mouth cushion for full face therapy from ResMed. This unobtrusive design frees the field of vision and makes this a lightweight, quiet and easy-to-use mask.
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2. What are the key benefits/features of the Mirage Liberty?
   The Mirage Liberty is a revolutionary design that fits over 90% of users and incorporates dual-wall nasal pillows with trampoline action and a dual-wall mouth cushion. The flexible headgear with stabilizing elements helps to deliver therapy comfortably and securely. The Mirage Liberty also uses known and tested technologies from previous Mirage masks, such as a set-and-forget headgear, quick-release elbow and quick-release headgear clips.
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3. How many cushion/frame sizes are offered with the new Mirage Liberty?
   The product has 2 frame/cushion sizes (small and large). A new sizing template is available for quick and easy fitting. Fitting templates are available at your local dealer only.
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4. What type of users would benefit from Mirage Liberty?
   Any full face mask user can benefit from the Mirage Liberty. Some users who previously had fitting challenges (ie deviated septum, Mirage Swift™ II users who open their mouth, users who like to read, wear glasses or watch television in bed) might benefit from this mask.
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5. What mask do you recommend for users who feel claustrophobic with full face masks?
   Mirage Liberty is a great alternative to conventional full face masks because it covers the nose and mouth without blocking your field of vision.
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6. What makes the nasal pillows unique?
   Mirage Liberty has dual-wall nasal pillows, a first for ResMed and the industry. The inner cushion provides stability while the outer membrane is soft and comfortable at the nostril opening. Each mask comes with small, medium and large pillows.
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7. What is Trampoline Action?
   Each nasal pillow can be moved up or down, like the action of jumping on a trampoline. But they also adjust in any angle to fit various nose-to-mouth heights and angles, as well as adjust to different nasal opening angles.
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8. How do you know when the pillows are properly inserted into the cushion?
   Alignment markers on the cushion and nasal pillow clearly indicate correct placement. The pillows are symmetrical to make assembly easier.
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9. My nostrils are different sizes, will the Liberty mask be able to accommodate my needs?
   Yes. The pillows can be easily removed and you can cut the link between each pair of pillows and insert different sizes. For example small on left and medium on the right.
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10. The nasal pillow inserts look much longer in the picture than other nasal pillows I have used, do they insert further into the nostrils than others?
    The nasal pillows on the Mirage Liberty sit gently at the entrance of the nostrils and are quite comfortable. The stalk of the pillow, the section that can move up and down, is large enough to fit all different kinds of facial geometries.
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11. How do I clean the nasal pillows?
    Hand wash by gently rubbing in warm water as you would the rest of the mask. You can remove excess debris in walls of nasal pillows with a small brush.
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12. What are the sterilization guidelines?
    Detailed disinfection and sterilization instructions are available on the ResMed website www.resmed.com/masks/sterilization/americas
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13. I was looking at a picture of the Liberty online and was wondering what the series of small holes are on the left and right sides of the front of the mask?  If they are ventilation holes, should I be concerned about noise?
    There are two sections of vent holes on either side of the mask frame that allow for CO 2 to wash out. These exhalation holes are much quieter than our previous Ultra Mirage™ full face mask.
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14. Is the Mirage Liberty quieter than the UMFFM?
    Yes, it is 80% quieter than the Ultra Mirage full face mask. We compare how quiet one device is to another by using an international ISO standard (ISO 3744: 1994 Acoustics Determination of Sound Power to measure the noise levels). The sound measurement comparison used is decibels or dBA. Sound pressure is measured at the mask at 10 cm H20.
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15. Do all manufacturers use this ISO standard?
    Yes, this standard is the agreed upon measurement for testing.
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16. How is the new mask quieter than the Ultra Mirage full face mask?
    The two multi-hole vent arrays optimizes CO 2 washout and provides for quiet, gentle dispersion of air. A silicone diffuser is no longer needed.
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17. What is the benefit of the mouth cushion?
    The Mirage dual-wall mouth cushion design (similar to other ResMed design) provides exceptional seal and accommodates for jaw movement, eliminating the need for a chin strap.
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18. Is there a cushion clip like your other full face masks?
    No. The cushion fits into the frame by a friction fit. Alignment markers on the bottom of frame and cushion aid with assembly.
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19. Is the headgear material breathable like your other Mirage mask systems?
    Yes, the headgear uses our special Breathe-O-Prene ® fabric.
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20. What makes Breathe-O-Prene better?
    Breathe-O-Prene material actually wicks away moisture rather than collecting it. This keeps the material dry, making it more comfortable.
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21. What makes the Mirage Liberty headgear effective?
    The stabilizing elements on the top straps are flexible enough for various facial types but semi-rigid to keep the mask in place. It is a similar concept used on Mirage Swift.
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22. Can the mask easily be removed in case of an emergency?
    The quick-release clips on the lower straps readily disconnect the headgear from the frame.
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23. Headgear tends to bunch on my head. Do you have a small headgear?
    The standard headgear comes with each mask. A small size can be ordered separately.
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24. What is the purpose of the short tube?
    The short tube decouples the movement of the tubing from the mask, helping to maintain seal.
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25. How does the short tube attach to the mask?
    Simply click elbow to frame. Just pinch elbow to remove.
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26. How often should the short tube be replaced?
    The short tube is considered part of the mask and should be replaced according to mask replacement schedule.
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27. Where is the Anti-Asphyxia Valve (AAV) located?
    The AAV is located in the elbow on the short tube. This integrated design has fewer parts than our Ultra Mirage full face mask.
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28. What is the purpose of the Anti-Asphyxia Valve?
    It is designed to allow air to enter the mask should there be a power failure and your flow generator turns off while you are sleeping. All full face masks have an AAV.
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29. The AAV looks the same as the Mirage Quattro, can they be interchanged?
    The silicone flap is the same for both products. The clips that hold them to the elbows are different and cannot be interchanged.
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30. How do I determine what size my mask is when I have to replace it?
    The name of the mask is printed on the mask frame and headgear. The size is clearly identifiable on the cushion, nasal pillows and frame.
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31. Is the Mirage Liberty covered under insurance similar to other full face masks?
    Starting July 1, 2007 Mirage Liberty will be covered under insurance under a new “oral nasal” mask category with new K codes to be used by all payers. In the meantime, Miscellaneous codes should be used until June 30th .
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32. What will the new codes be?
    There will be four codes that the new mask can be reimbursed under starting July 1, 2007. K0553 Combination oral/nasal mask, used with continuous positive airway pressure device, each ; K0554 Oral cushion for combination oral/nasal mask, replacement; K0555 Nasal pillows for combination oral/nasal mask, replacement, pair; A7035 Headgear.
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33. Is there a way to clean the Velcro strips?  After time, they become less sticky.
    The best way to ensure effective Velcro is to clean the headgear weekly with warm soapy water. The headgear should also be changed every six months or according to your replacement schedule.
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34. Is the headgear available in different colors or sizes?
    Not at this time. The blue and teal color combination appears to be a generally well accepted color scheme by many patients and is also the visual identification of ResMed's premium Mirage family of masks.
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35. Is there a fitting template for the Mirage Liberty?
    Yes, fitting templates are provided to clinicians to assist in determining the correct mouth cushion size.
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36. Does it come in a travel bag?
    Yes, it comes in a convenient carrying case that is reusable, washable and can be easily placed inside a suitcase, backpack or briefcase.
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37. I know mask cushions and pillows wear out and need replacing every 3-6 months, but how long should I expect the mask frame and headgear to last before replacing?
    The entire mask should be replaced per your insurance replacement schedule, but the mask frame and headgear is designed to last at least 6 months.
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38. Is the unique material used for the Liberty pillows going to wear out quicker than most nasal pillows? Will I need to replace it more often?
    The Mirage Liberty is made of the same high quality materials that other ResMed masks are manufactured from. The mask should be replaced per your insurance replacement schedule to ensure that the mask continues to seal effectively.
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39. Does the new mask have pressure ports?
    Yes, the pressure ports have been moved to the bottom of the mask near the elbow and are more low-profile. One silicone piece covers both ports.
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40. Does the Mirage Liberty come with a user guide to help me understand how to use it?
    Yes, it comes complete with a quick-fit guide, detailed user instructions and a DVD with fitting and care information.
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41. What mask setting do you use on the AutoSet™ flow generators?
    Mirage Liberty uses the “Mir Full” or “Full Face” setting depending on the model of the flow generator.
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42. Can you use the Mirage Liberty with a ResMed AutoSet or EPR™ device?
    Yes.
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43. Can you use the Mirage Liberty with VPAP Adapt SV™?
    Yes.
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44. How much does the Mirage Liberty cost?
    The Mirage Liberty is priced competitively with other full face masks on the market. Pricing for the system can be obtained from your local distributor.
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45. Is the Mirage Liberty approved for multi-patient, multi-use?
    Yes, except for the short tube, the mask is approved for multi-patient, multi-use in hospitals. The entire mask, except for the headgear, can be used with thermal, chemical or Sterrad for up to 20 cycles.
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46. What type of soap should the Mirage Liberty be washed with?
    The cushion, pillows, mask frame and elbow should be washed with warm, soapy water similar to other ResMed masks. Use pure soap, such as unscented Dove. Rinse well and then allow to air dry out of direct sunlight.
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47. Is the Mirage Liberty latex-free?
    Yes.
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48. Can I order spare parts for the Mirage Liberty?
    Yes, a number of components can be ordered, including the headgear and cushions, by contacting your local dealer.
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49. What has been the general feedback about Mirage Liberty so far?
    It has been very positive. The nasal pillows are very comfortable and don't drift out of your nostrils if you open your mouth. Clearly there is a need for an alternative to full face masks for mouth breathers!
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50. What should I do if I hear air leaks?
    If you hear air leaks, adjust the nasal pillows and headgear straps until the leaks are sealed.
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51. What is the easiest way to remove the Mirage Liberty?
    There are two quick-release clips on the mask. Unclip either one and then pull the mask off over your head.
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52. When adjusting the headgear straps, which one should be adjusted first?
    First adjust the top straps, then the bottom straps. Pull the Velcro more to the back along the headgear, instead of pulling up.
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53. At what pressures can the Mirage Liberty be used with your flow generators?
    The Mirage Liberty is tested and can be used with pressures from 4-20 cm H20.
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54. What setting should be used on ResMed flow generators?
    “ Full face” or “Mir Full” settings on the S8™ series from ResMed.
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