ResMed SoftGel Nasal CPAP Mask

Chat Transcript Summary

November 17, 2009

The benevolent mission of Talk About Sleep includes patient education.  The more we know about our sleep apnea condition and the exciting new products available for treatment, the better we can help our medical professionals assist us in managing our sleep disorder. On Tuesday, November 17, 2009 Talk About Sleep was pleased to welcome ResMed who sponsored a special event chat on topic of their newly launched Mirage SoftGel nasal mask.  Guest speakers were ResMed product managers Elaine McGhee and Greg Peake. The transcript follows.

Elaine McGhee has been a Product Manager at ResMed for 3 years where she has contributed to the launch of 6 masks including the Mirage Quattro, Mirage Activa LT and most recently the Mirage SoftGel. She continues to be an advocate for users by incorporating feedback into new product development as well as supporting existing nasal masks. Her background also includes international marketing, market research and market management.

Greg Peake, Product Manager of Masks at ResMed, has a Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering from the University of New South Wales, and a Masters of Industrial Design from the same university. Greg spent 6 years in product development with 3 of those at ResMed's Design Centre in Sydney, Australia before moving into the Global Product Management team in Sydney for a year and a half.  He most recently moved to the US to join ResMed's Americas team in Mask Product Marketing. During his time at ResMed Greg has been worked primarily on Nasal Masks and Nasal Pillows masks, and has been heavily involved in new product development.

 

 

What is SoftGel?

The Mirage™ SoftGel is designed to offer exceptional comfort and versatility for you. As part of ResMed’s exclusive new ConvertAble™ Series, the SoftGel features an interchangeable frame which is also compatible with the high-performance Mirage Activa™ LT, allowing you and your homecare provider greater freedom of choice with less hassle.

What features will help with my therapy? 

One of the highest rated features of our new nasal mask is our quiet and diffused vent that disperses the air 360˚ with a gentle airflow designed to not disturb your bed partner. Another popular feature is the MicroFit dial forehead adjustment, which allows for quick one-handed adjustment to minimize leak. In addition, the SoftGel provides features like the push-button headgear clips and rotating elbow that reduces tube drag.

Have you trialed it on patients?

Yes. We trialed it this past summer on 52 patients and the results were overwhelmingly positive. 8 out of 10 patients rated SoftGel better in comfort and durability than ComfortGel.  Based on our patient trial study, 82% or more patients rated softness, comfort and durability #1 compared to ComfortGel!

How long will the SoftGel last?

Built with ResMed quality components, the SoftGel is designed to deliver consistently high performance night after night. Contact your homecare provider for more information on mask replacements.

What is DoubleGel™?

DoubleGel is the SoftGel’s exclusive new cushion, which includes two layers of gel that provide a comfortable and stable seal. The blue layer provides stability while the clear, softer gel layer gently conforms to the face for a comfortable seal.

Are two layers of gel better than one?

Yes. Every mask needs stability which the blue layer provides, while the clear layer provides a conforming seal.

Is the cushion safe?

Yes. The SoftGel cushion is made of medical grade silicone.

Will the cushion feel as soft after many uses?

Yes. The DoubleGel cushion is designed to automatically conform to your nose for a soft and gentle seal, and return to the original shape after each use. The unique nature of the clear layer will deliver a consistent soft seal time after time.

What is the ConvertAble Series?

Only from ResMed, the interchangeable frame across the Mirage Activa LT and SoftGel allows for fitting efficiencies and choice. It also keeps therapy more personalized because the cushions can be rotated for enhanced comfort.

What is Activa LT?

Activa LT is a more streamlined version of our Activa cushion. This inflatable cushion seals lightly to the nose and decouples movement. Some users describe the cushion as “floating” on the face. Activa LT is great for active sleepers and users seeking a robust yet light seal.

What benefits does the ConvertAble series provide?

Shared parts make it quicker and easier to switch seals. You and your homecare provider have the ability to choose the cushion that’s right for you.  We often hear from users that they want to change cushions from time to time to give the skin a breather, and this is a great option.

How many sizes are there?

The SoftGel is currently available in Medium and Large. We will have Small and Large Wide available soon. Contact your homecare dealer for timing of these sizes.

How do I fit the SoftGel?

SoftGel is quick and easy to fit. Always turn the dial to 24 to allow for a light seal at the nasal bridge. Put the mask on and tighten the headgear until leak has been eliminated. Also turn the dial to eliminate leak at your nasal bridge. The soft layer will still feel comfortable as you tighten the mask to minimize leaks.

How do I know what size I am? 

Your homecare provider has a fitting template and will be able to fit you according to the correct cushion size. Fitting templates can also be uploaded from the mask pages of our website, www.resmed.com.

How do I clean a SoftGel mask?

The same way you would other ResMed masks. Wash the mask daily with warm soapy water, rinse and let air dry. The headgear can be washed weekly with warm soapy water. A simple soap with no aromatics or citrus is recommended. Some users clean their masks with baby shampoo since it’s so mild.

Where can I learn more about SoftGel?

Your homecare dealer can provide you with more information. The Mirage SoftGel webpage on www.resmed.com also has a usage and care video that walks you through fitting, disassembly, reassembly and cleaning.