LasR™

LasR™ Hearing Instrument Shells Significantly Increase Patient Satisfaction*

Improved retention and all-day long comfort are just two of the many advantages of hearing instruments made with LasR (Laser Accurate Scan Replication), a revolutionary new shell manufacturing technology. LasR utilizes state-of-the-art software, combined with precision laser scanning, to increase accuracy when duplicating impressions of the ear.

Here's How:

LasR technology captures an image of the physical impression provided by the Hearing Health Care Professional using three-dimensional scanning. After scanning, the LasR software draws a "point-cloud" image of the impressions in three-dimensional space. The raw data is used to create a surface of the virtual impression. The vent and receiver holes can then be positioned, or repositioned, as needed. The unique software uses a highly complex algorithm performing millions of calculations to complete the process.

Guided by the 3D-rendered data, a laser then precisely "builds" the shell from a bed of medical-grade, powdered polyamide (nylon) shell material. This material meets stringent biocompatibility requirements and is stronger than traditional acrylic shells. The laser selectively creates, or sinters, the shell to unprecedented accuracy.

Although the resulting shells are lightly bead blasted, overall there is minimal pre- and post-processing modification required. The finished shell has a textured surface, which provides a better, more secure fit in the ear.¹ Once the LasR-made shell is complete, production of the instrument follows the traditional manufacturing process.

Benefits of LasR Shells

LasR shells are stronger and provide a more accurate replication of your patient's ear than traditional UV shells. In the traditional process, impressions are "waxed" to erase surface imperfections. This process can obscure natural anatomical dips and ridges. Our research shows that hearing instruments made with LasR shells significantly increase patient satisfaction. With LasR shells, patients report:

Hearing instruments made with LasR shells are less likely to slip out because the shells precisely follow the contours of the ear. The surface of a LasR shell is not smooth. The matte textured surface, more natural in appearance, contributes to better retention in the ear. The textured surface is also beneficial for patients with dexterity issues to handle because it is easier to grip.

As this technology progresses, someday you may be able to directly scan a patient's ear right in your office and send the information electronically to a Siemens production facility, without ever making a physical impression.

LasR Standard on all CIC, MC, ITC and HS

You will automatically receive LasR-made shells, at no additional charge, whenever these types of instruments are ordered. You can also order LasR-made shells for full concha ITEs if desired. But, you must specify that on the order form by checking the "LasR" option.

If you do not want a LasR-made shell on a particular order, and wish instead to have a UV-made shell, please make a note of that on your order form in the "special instructions" area.

A free demonstration video is available from Siemens to show your patients how the LasR process works. The video is perfect for reception areas, health fairs and public speaking engagements. Call your Siemens Sales Representative now to order this free video!

LasR hearing instrument shells significantly increase customer satisfaction.

Reasons Patients Prefer LasR Shells:

Actual Patient Comments:

*Velde, 2001. Unpublished Siemens Hearing Instruments in-house data from 150 hearing instrument users.