Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure for At-Home Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Case Report

Abstract

Nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) has been reported to be an effective means of treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and a viable alternative to disfiguring tracheostomies. Previous researchers have reported a variety of mechanical configu-rations for the administration of nasal CPAP, primarily for in-hospital use. We devised a nasal CPAP system for at-home use—consisting of a custom-fitted nasal mask, a medical air compressor, a flowmeter, a Cascade humidifier, and a PEEP valve. All parts, except the mask, were "off-the-shelf" home-care items and therefore cost-reimbursable. We evaluated the system in a 14-year-old obese boy with OSA. The PEEP valve allowed us to determine by titration the lowest effective CPAP level at which his apnea episodes and oxygen desaturation were controlled. The patient has used the system successfully at home for 8 months with no complications or mechanical failure. (Respir Care 1985;30:90-94.)

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