Abstract: Effects of a Heated Tube on Sleep Quality, With Active Heated Humidification During CPAP Therapy In a Cool Sleeping Environment

Printed with permission from Fisher&Paykel Healthcare

Poster Session: Advances in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Nilius, Georg, Domanski, Ulrike, Franke, Karl-Josef, Ruhle, Kral-Heinz
Chest 2005 128: 232S-a

Aim

To compare the effect of conventional humidification with ThermoSmart™ heated breathing tube humidification on sleep quality and patient symptoms.

Methods

• 19 OSA patients, prospectively recruited.
• Patients underwent two full nights of polysomnography (PSG), in a cool room, whilst on CPAP at their pre-determined therapeutic pressure. Their first night was randomized to either conventional heated humidification or ThermoSmart™ heated breathing tube humidification. Patients crossed over to the alternative treatment arm on their second night.
• PSG parameters were analyzed to determine objective quality of sleep and subjective questionnaires were administered to determine patient symptoms/side effects of therapy.

Results

Conclusion

If condensation forms in the CPAP tubing system sleep quality is considerably reduced. When using CPAP therapy in a cool room, the use of a heated humidifier with a heated breathing tube improves sleep quality and subjective symptom scores.