A simple system for administration of continuous positive airway pressure breathing uses a corrugated hose in the modified Mapleson D system for anaesthesia. The only mechanical component of the system is a spring-loaded valve for positive end expiratory pressure.

How is it treated? The standard treatment for OSA is a machine called CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure). CPAP uses pressurized air to keep the airway open at night. Most CPAP machines are about 12 × 6 × 6 inches, and weigh between 4 and 8 lb. While you sleep, you will wear a mask that connects to the CPAP machine. Some masks fit over the mouth and nose. Other masks fit over the nose only.

BACKGROUND This study aimed to determine whether reducing the expiratory pressure during nasal positive airway pressure for reasons of comfort causes a substantial decrease in the upper airway calibre. METHODS Eight patients with obstructive sleep apnoea were studied. Continuous computed tomography (each run lasting 12 seconds) was used to measure minimum and maximum pharyngeal cross sectiona...

A proximal positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) system was constructed by the simple addition of a venturi T-piece proximal to the exhalation limb of a breathing circuit. The level of PEEP or CPAP was determined by the amount of flow powering the venturi. This system can provide positive pressure in excess of 40 cm H2O without the need for check...

OBJECTIVE The effects of acute continuous positive airway pressure therapy on left ventricular diastolic function and functional capacity in patients with compensated systolic heart failure remain unclear. METHODS This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial included 43 patients with heart failure and a left ventricular ejection fraction <0.50 who were in functional classe...

Surgical treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) has been available in some form for greater than three decades. Early management for airway obstruction during sleep relied on tracheotomy which although life saving was not well accepted by patients. In the early eighties two new forms of treatment for OSAS were developed. Surgically a technique described as a uvulopalatopharyngopla...