High-End Machines - Three of the Most Popular CPAP Devices Available

 
By Admin
  CPAP machines have come a long way since they entered the market in the mid-1980s. While the early models provided a much-needed treatment option for those suffering from sleep apnea syndromes, over time they became much more efficient, comfortable, and technologically advanced. Today, high-end devices such as the Philips DreamStation Go and the ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet and AirCurve 10 VAuto models, provide more than just a novel and effective treatment option; they are automated, self-adjusting, and personalized tools for a life of therapy, capable of assessing patient health outcomes and displaying those results on multiple platforms. These machines not only prevent apnea and hypopnea events from occurring, but can assess the effectiveness of their own settings, giving patients valuable feedback that once required a visit to the doctor. Furthermore, devices such as the AirSense 10 AutoSet are auto-titrating, which means they require no manual settings or adjustments to match patient breathing patterns. The AirCurve 10 Vauto, on the other hand, is both an APAP and a BiPAP machine, which will switch to a lower pressure during exhalation and adjust its timing to best suit patient needs. And travel CPAP machines, such as the DreamStation Go, are extremely popular for their convenience, discreetness, and limited power needs. While most PAP devices are fairly compact, the mini-machines take it another level, fitting the same capabilities into a device small enough to fit in a suitcase pocket. There are many high-quality machines on the market, but these examples represent some of the leading PAP-device products currently available, each of them setting a new gold standard in personalized medical equipment.  

ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet

The standard bearer of APAP technology, ResMed’s AirSense 10 Auto-CPAP machine uses the most advanced features available for automated PAP-therapy treatment. AutoSet, or auto-CPAP, refers to the automated titration (pressure) adjustments that are made by the device in real time, during therapy. This allows for a more comfortable therapy experience by using the minimum pressure necessary to maintain an unobstructed airway. While AirSense 10 devices have been on the market since 2014, their proven effectiveness and reliability have made them a staple of the ResMed product line, popular for their durability and ease of use as well as their many advanced features. As ResMed’s first Smart CPAP machine, the AirSense 10 AutoSet includes a built-in cellular modem and a built-in heated humidifier, design features that make it ready to go straight out of the box, with very few setup requirements. And despite the automated pressure settings, there are a large number of optional settings for further customization.
Aesthetics
The AirSense 10 AutoSet has a sleek design that despite its built-in features is still smaller than some full-size machines on the market. Even with the built-in humidifier, modem, and battery, the AirSense 10 remains small enough to fit easily on a side table or shelf (7.6 x 6.2 x 3.3 inches). Although the AirSense 10 can weigh up to 5 pounds in its case with the humidifier, hose and other accessories, the machine itself weighs only about 2.75 pounds. It is also exceptionally quiet. At 26.6 decibels within the range of a bedroom, the AirSense 10 is as close to soundless as any machine available. With the sharp look and whisper-quiet motor, AirSense 10 AutoSet devices have the sound and appearance of a high-quality product, giving users a sense of confidence in their design and durability. Fans of the AirSense 10 series often refer to the look and feel of the device, as well as its quiet motor. Together, these aspects have given the design a certain prestige within the CPAP community. The popularity of the AirSense line has grown over the years, and the AirSense 10 AutoSet is the most advanced and specialized model of the AirSense series.
Operations
The AirSense 10 AutoSet includes a number of automated features for comfort and efficiency, including ResMed’s AutoRamp technology for gradual escalation of pressures, ClimateLineAir and HumidAir technology for optimum air temperature and comfort, and Expiratory Relief for reduced pressure when the patient exhales. And as an ideal solution for leaks, ResMed’s Vsync technology is capable of detecting air losses and adjusting quickly to compensate, providing consistent pressure levels during treatment and logging the event to inform the patient of the issue. These features, known as pressure controls, have become standards of ResMed PAP-device products and provide a level of consistency that is highly beneficial to the patient.
Remote Access and Cloud-Based Support
ResMed’s high-end machines now include wireless technology that connects directly to ResMed's AirView patient management system, a cutting-edge cloud-based management hub that allows users or medical staff to observe data, change device settings, or troubleshoot remotely from any device with a network connection. In addition, the MyAir web application is designed for patient record keeping, giving users complete access to therapy data in easily readable formats. One of the first devices with these capabilities, the AirSense 10 software is updated regularly to maintain the most advanced technical capabilities.
The AirSense 10 AutoSet For Her
The AirSense 10 AutoSet is also available in the “For Her” version, which includes all the same features as the standard model, but with added features such as a smoother transition between pressures and a more pleasing aesthetic. The Soft response setting makes each change in pressure more gradual, providing less jarring changes during the night. The AirSense 10 AutoSet For Her also uses a special algorithm developed for female patients or those who prefer pressures that more closely match their breathing patterns. While a standard algorithm responds after 3 flow-limited breaths and moves up by as much as 3 cmwp (centimeters water pressure), The For Her algorithm, on the other hand, responds after just 1 flow-limited breath and will move up by as much as 2.5 cmwp. If this feature is not preferred, the For Her model can be set to standard response times as well.  

ResMed AirCurve 10 VAuto

The ResMed AirCurve 10 VAuto machine is considered by some to be the “Rolls Royce of PAP-therapy devices.” This machine represents the cutting edge in PAP-therapy technologies, including both APAP and BiPAP capabilities in a single device. Using ResMed’s popular AutoSet algorithm in a BiLevel capacity, the AirCurve 10 VAuto not only adjusts automatically to patient breathing, but also uses dual pressure levels for each breath, making the device one of the most sophisticated models available. And with an extensive range of Smart features such as an automated on/off switch and mask check, ambient light sensors, and altitude adjustments, this machine takes PAP therapy to a new level in personalized care.
Aesthetics
Like the AirSense 10, the AirCurve product line is popular for its look and feel. Customers like the AirCurve 10’s attractive physical design and LCD display, which give it the look of a bedside stereo, complete with easy-grip dial and user-friendly navigation menus. The intuitive touchscreen display also gives users immediate feedback on therapy data sets, for example, average number of apnea or hypopnea events, total sleep time, and mask leaks, among others. If patients wish to observe their treatment data in more detail, ResMed’s MyAir web application can be accessed for a complete record of the device’s daily therapy reports.
Operations
The AirCurve 10 VAuto machine incorporates APAP and BiPAP technologies in a unique manner, using the AirSense Auto-PAP algorithm to automatically adjust to patient breathing, while at the same time establishing separate air pressure levels for inhalation (IPAP) and exhalation (EPAP). In addition to these adjustments, the VSync pressure controls help even further by checking for leaks and providing the necessary compensation to IPAP and EPAP pressures. Each of these capabilities contributes to patient-device synchrony, and a number of extra comfort features are added to make the experience as accommodating as it can be. And just like the AirSense 10 AutoSet, the AirCurve 10 includes wireless capabilities for remote access via ResMed’s online patient management platforms.
Comfort Features
While many features of the AirCurve series are also included in other ResMed devices like the AirSense 10 AutoSet, the AirCurve 10 VAuto includes the most advanced capabilities currently available for a PAP-device product. Some beginning CPAP users may not notice all the subtleties of such a high-end device, but more experienced users are likely to appreciate the AirCurve difference, especially in regard to comfort. One of the main differences between the AirCurve 10 VAuto and other devices is the smoothness of its transitions during pressure and timing changes. When a patient’s breathing fluctuates in the night, the AirCurve 10 VAuto very closely matches those changes with flow shifts that feel as natural as possible, as if the machine is an extension of its user. As with the AirSense 10 AutoSet, the AirCurve 10 VAuto has a high-quality pressure relief system (Expiratory Pressure Relief), a Smart Ramp system with Sleep Onset Detection for a more gradual therapy onset, and an integrated HumidAire heated humidifier—which can auto-adjust humidity levels based on the temperature in the room. In addition, the AirCurve 10 operates in multiple modes for a range of patient needs and preferences, including S (spontaneous) mode and S/T (spontaneous/timed) which both respond to inspiratory changes, T (timed) mode for manual settings, standard CPAP mode, ASV, and VAuto. This level of versatility helps considerably with those diagnosed with chronic breathing problems such as COPD or obstructive lung disease. ResMed’s TiControl feature, which monitors patterns of inhalation and exhalation to help prevent the cycling of breaths, can make a crucial difference to those patients with shortened exhalation times, especially for chronic conditions. TiControl works alongside Vsync to maintain proper patient breathing despite any events or anomalies. These features are examples of the highly advanced capabilities of these devices, running multiple applications simultaneously while the patient sleeps to ensure a comfortable, trouble-free therapy experience every time you put on the mask.  

Philips DreamStation Go

Travel-size machines, also called Mini CPAP devices, are extremely popular right now, and the Philips DreamStation Go Mini CPAP device represents the ideal travel-size design, complete with the latest in PAP-therapy technologies wrapped in a compact, lightweight package. This highly advanced and intelligent auto-CPAP system provides on-the-go portability without compromising on the performance, durability, and advanced connectivity features users have come to expect from the DreamStation brand. And with an integrated battery pack and optional heated humidifier designed specifically for the Dreamstation Go model, this device is just as effective for everyday use as it is for traveling.
What Qualifies as a Travel-Size CPAP Machine?
While there is no strict definition of a travel-size or mini CPAP device, they are normally smaller, lighter, more compact, and smoother in shape to allow for easy packing and optimal portability. Travel-size machines should also run for an extensive period of time on batteries, and multiple battery charging options help as well (DC charging). A travel device should also be easy to use without many setup requirements, as well as being easy to wash and maintain. A carrying case, of course, is mandatory for a travel device, as is FAA approval. The DreamStation Go receives a checkmark for each of these features and more, but it’s also an excellent choice for everyday use, making it one of the most popular devices currently available.
Aesthetics
The Philips DreamStation Go is extremely compact and square with rounded edges, making the lightest of the DreamStation product line and one of lightest PAP devices on the market, weighing roughly 1.85 lbs. It also uses a smaller, thinner tube than previous devices and includes one of the first color touchscreen displays for a compact model. Due to its smaller size, its integrated battery operates with impressive run times, lasting over 12 hours per charge. This makes the device extremely convenient, easy to operate, and able to last through the night with plenty of power left over. Even with a small screen, the display of the DreamStation Go is one of the best available, including a high-performance color LCD touchscreen and highly intuitive menus. These features, while standard for today's PAP-device technology, are more specialized for travel-size machines, using advanced components developed specifically for the DreamStation Go device.
Operations
At less than half the size of its full-size competitors, the DreamStation Go is a high-performance machine with many of the same advanced features found on previous DreamStation models, including automatic pressure adjustments, auto on/off switching, and advanced connectivity and data storage options. Like its ResMed counterparts, the DreamStation Go has state-of-the-art advanced data tracking and is accessible with any device via Bluetooth or wifi connection to the Philips DreamMapper app, providing easy access to therapy data.
Advanced Support Capabilities
Also like the ResMed models, the DreamStation Go is an auto-CPAP machine, allowing it to make real-time pressure adjustments to match patient breathing. The DreamStation Go also has its own system of pressure relief, known as Flex Relief, which lowers pressure during exhalation in the same manner as EPR. Along with the many benefits of a travel-size therapy device, the DreamStation Go’s precise automated adjustments to pressure volume, breathing rate, and expiratory relief make the device one of the most coveted therapy systems available.
Other Considerations
While not everyone can afford a high-end device to treat their sleep apnea, many health insurance plans will cover high quality needs if they are merited. There is also the option of using refurbished or restored devices which are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before being sold. Prices can vary a lot, but there are online retailers selling complete sets with all needed components and accessories for as cheap as $600-700 new. Before making a purchase, always seek the advice or recommendations of a health professional to assess your needs as a patient. Also consider the different types of machines and masks, and how they might suit your sleeping arrangements. Every person is unique in regard to their health and preferences, but every patient deserves quality treatment and proper sleep. We spend a third of our lives asleep or trying to sleep, and CPAP is part of that experience, making an investment in a premium therapy device well worth the consideration.  
Sources
Handbook of Clinical Neurology - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21056174/ Philips DreamStation Go - https://www.usa.philips.com/c-e/hs/sleep-apnea-therapy/dreamstation-go Philips Flex Technologies - http://c398534.r34.cf1.rackcdn.com/DOCUMENTS/4108141%20proof.pdf ResMed AirCurve 10 VAuto - https://www.resmed.com/us/en/healthcare-professional/products/devices/aircurve-10-vauto.html ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet - https://www.resmed.com/ap/en/consumer/products/devices/airsense-10-autoset.html ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet For Her - https://www.resmed.com/us/en/healthcare-professional/products/devices/airsense-10-autoset-for-her.html ResMed Innovation and Technology - https://www.resmed.com/ap/en/healthcare-professional/airsolutions/innovation-and-technology.html Sleepapnea.org - https://www.sleepapnea.org/treat/cpap-therapy/choosing-a-pap-machine/difference-between-cpap-auto-cpap-bilevel/ Sleepfoundation.org - https://www.sleepfoundation.org/articles/cpap-101-expert-tips-getting-started-continuous-positive-airway-pressure-cpap-machines