Philips CPAP, BiPAP and Ventilator Recall

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In June 2021, Philips recalled millions of CPAP, BiPAP, and mechanical ventilators. Philips’ announcement explained that testing had shown the polyester-based polyurethane (PE-PUR) foam used to dampen the noise of the recalled devices presented health risks to the users. Users of the recalled Philips machines who developed cancer or other serious health issues are filing lawsuits.

Philips’ CPAP recall announcement explained that the PE-PUR foam could degrade into tiny particles that could be ingested or inhaled by the user, and that certain chemicals in the foam could also emit harmful gases. Philips claimed that using unapproved methods to clean the machines could make the foam degrade more quickly and that operating the machines in high heat and high humidity could also contribute to the problem.

Which Philips CPAP Machines Are Involved in the Recall?

According to the FDA, this is a complete list of the recalled Philips Respironics models:

What to Do If Your Philips CPAP Has Been Recalled?

The FDA recommends that users of any recalled Philips CPAP machine talk to their doctors about treatment options. Depending on each patient’s particular situation, their medical providers may recommend that users:

• Stop their CPAP treatment.
• Use another, non-recalled CPAP machine.
• Try other treatments, such as oral appliances or positional therapy.
• Continue to use the device if the benefits outweigh the risks.

If you are among the millions of consumers dealing with the Philips recall and its effects on your life and sleep, you probably have many questions. The FDA has created a web page with links to resources and answers to a fairly comprehensive list of Frequently Asked Questions about the Philips CPAP Recall. You can access it here: Philips Respironics CPAP, BiPAP, and Ventilator Recall: Frequently Asked Questions

Philips Begins to Repair Some CPAP Machines

In September 2021, Philips began replacing the PE-PUR foam in the recalled machines with a silicone-based foam. However, in November 2021, the FDA released an update notifying the public that its testing found that the new silicone foam could still pose a health risk. The FDA had discovered that silicone-based foam used in a similar device sold outside the U.S. failed a safety test because it released of unacceptable levels of certain volatile organic compounds.

The FDA has not recommended that patients stop using the repaired machines containing silicone foam. But the FDA has asked Philips to hire an independent laboratory to perform additional testing on the silicone-based foam it is using. The FDA is still investigating and will likely provide updates when they have more information.

FDA Investigation Indicates Philips Knew of CPAP Dangers Years Before the Recall

In August 2021 and November 2021, the FDA inspected the Philips Respironics manufacturing facility in Pennsylvania. As part of those inspections, they examined the company’s digital records, operations, and product testing. Investigators report finding evidence that Philips personnel had known of issues with the PE-PUR foam for years, and Philips executives knew about the problems for more than a year before issuing the recall.

In addition to emails and internal documents, the FDA inspectors cited at least 14 tests or assessments from as early as 2016 indicating Philips’ awareness of the foam’s problems and the potential for it to degenerate. FDA inspectors also cite a 2015 email from a Philips employee to their supplier implying that a customer had reported the foam degradation issues.

FDA investigators also observed that Philips had received hundreds of thousands of complaints about particles and other contaminants when the devices were used but failed to open a formal investigation. In response to the report, Philips said that the FDA may have overestimated the number of safety issues raised by customers in relation to the recall. Philips CEO Frans van Houten told reporters, “The complaints that were referenced by the FDA are the result of a very broad search. Therefore, the complaints did not necessarily relate specifically to the issue that led to the recall.” The company said it had acted on a total of about 1,250 complaints it deemed specific to the foam particulates. Philips also announced that the company and the FDA will go through the details together and release a full report when the investigation is complete.

Philips CPAP Recall Investigations Continue

The investigations into the Philips CPAP recall continue.

And while those investigations continue, many consumers who use CPAP machines remain somewhat confused, hungry for more information, and impatiently waiting for reliable and safe repairs or replacements. They also must watch their health for any signs of the carcinogenic and toxic effects of the foam used in the recalled devices.