Cochlear Baha SoundArc Frequently Asked Questions page 2

Frequently Asked Questions
Baha SoundArc
®
7. How do I test the Baha SoundArc retention?
Retention for each patient may vary when using the Baha
SoundArc. Patients should be able to wear the Baha SoundArc
during everyday life situations. Ask the patient to move his/
her head and walk up or down stairs to test the comfort and
retention. Counsel to use a safety line for the processor if
participating in sports activities while wearing Baha SoundArc.
8. How do I choose between the Baha Softband
and Baha SoundArc?
Both solutions are equally effective and the choice should be
based on the patient's age, preference and head shape. The
Baha Softband is a better solution for infants and toddlers
that spend significant time laying down, as well as for patients
with craniofacial abnormalities that may struggle to find a
good fit with Baha SoundArc.
9. Can the Baha SoundArc be fitted bilaterally?
Yes. The Baha SoundArc can be made into a bilateral
configuration by simply adding a second Connector disc.
Fitting and Handling
12. How should I select the correct size
when fitting the Baha SoundArc?
Selecting the correct size depends on the patient´s head size
and shape, but can also depend on the patient's hair type and
quantity of hair. The Baha SoundArc should be fit so that the
Connector disc sits flush above the ear against the skin, the
silicone tips lay fully against the skin in front of the ear, but
do not protrude into the temple and there should be no gaps
at the back of the head. Part or adjust the hair as needed to
ensure the optimal fit. Consult the Professional Quick Fitting
Guide for support on achieving a comfortable fit for the best
hearing performance.
The video resources will demonstrate how to transform the
Baha SoundArc from unilateral to bilateral. When adjusting
a bilateral Connector disc on one side, ensure you adjust
the other side. Consult the Professional Quick Fitting Guide
for further information on how to fit the Baha SoundArc to
patients bilaterally.
10. Can a patient wear glasses with the Baha SoundArc?
Yes. The Baha SoundArc should be placed above the ear
which makes room for glasses. The patient should wear their
glasses during fitting of the Baha SoundArc to help determine
optimal placement.
11. How do I identify the sizes of the Baha SoundArc?
The Baha SoundArc demo box includes size marker stickers
(XS, S, M, L, and XL) which should be placed on the edge of
the Connector disc. Should a sticker be lost, for instance after
a home trial, compare the Baha SoundArc against a known
size or measure the length of the band. The length of the
bands are XS (30.6 cm), S (31.5 cm), M (33 cm), L (36 cm) and
XL (39 cm).
13. How does a patient's hair type affect the fitting
of the Baha SoundArc?
Thin or fine hair may need more adjustment to find a
comfortable fit with good retention, whereas thicker coarse
hair can mean Baha SoundArc is easily retained, but may need
adjustment to ensure good contact between the Connector disc
and skin. Hairspray or other hair treatment products can help
hold the hair in place under the Baha SoundArc, but should be
applied before putting the Baha SoundArc and processor on.
When fitting patients with longer hair, lift some of the hair
around the crown of the head and place the Baha SoundArc
on the head underneath, always ensuring that the Connector
disc sits flush against the skin. Remove Baha SoundArc by first
opening the arms outwards to avoid entangling the hair, and
then remove gently from the head. Avoid pulling backwards
directly as the silicone tips can pull the hair and can cause
discomfort for the patient.