CPAP and Bi-Level PAP (BiPAP) Machines

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Philips Respironics, a major manufacturer of bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP), continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), and mechanical ventilator devices, has recalled millions of units, in part because of the possible carcinogenic effects of a foam used in the devices. As a result, CPAP lawsuits are being filed against Phillips Respironics.

What is a CPAP Machine?

A CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine sends a steady flow of oxygen into the wearer’s mouth and nose to keep their airways open and help them breath normally. The machine’s motor generates a continuous stream of pressurized air that travels through an air filter into a flexible tube fitted into a mask that is sealed around the user’s mouth and nose. As the user sleeps, the machine pushes against any blockages, opening their airways to keep them breathing continuously and normally.

CPAP machines may have different styles of masks to accommodate the user’s comfort and to address their particular type of apnea.

• Full mask: The full mask is a triangle shape covering the user’s mouth and nose.
• Nasal mask: The nasal mask is a cushioned mask that covers the entire nose. It is sometimes preferred by users who move around a lot in their sleep.
• Nasal pillow mask: The nasal pillow mask has a small cushion that caps over the nostrils and may include prongs fitting into the nostrils. This mask allows the user to wear glasses easily and may also be preferred if the user’s facial hair prevents a larger mask from fitting properly.

What Is a Bi-Level PAP Machine?

A bi-level PAP machine is similar to a CPAP machine except that it delivers pressurized air at two alternating levels. The intake pressure is higher, supporting the patient while they breathe in, while the pressure is lower when the user breathes out. The patient’s sleep doctor prescribes the pressure settings so the machine supports and matches the user’s breathing pattern.

Other variations of bi-level PAP machines include more sophisticated settings to control the timing, length, and volume of breaths delivered.

What Is the Difference Between Bi-Level PAP, BiPAP, and VPAP Machines?

Bi-level PAP, BiPAP, and VPAP machines are all bi-level PAP machines. Philips Respironics calls its bi-level PAP machines BiPAP and has registered BiPAP as a trademark. ResMed, another major manufacturer, calls its bi-level PAP machines VPAP (variable positive airway pressure).

CPAP vs. BiPAP

When does a doctor prescribe CPAP and when is BiPAP more appropriate? A CPAP machine is usually prescribed first to treat sleep apnea. But if the patient can’t tolerate continuous positive airway pressure, the doctor may recommend changing to a bi-level PAP. A doctor may also recommend bi-level PAP from the start for a patient who finds it difficult to breathe out against the pressure supplied by the CPAP machine.

Bi-level PAP breathing support is also often used to treat central sleep apnea, a condition associated with opioid use, stroke, and congestive heart failure. It may also be employed if the patient’s apnea is more severe obstructive sleep apnea.

Bi-level PAP machines are considerably more expensive than CPAP machines.