Continuous positive airway pressure and humidification

Educational aims

1. To demonstrate the side-effects of CPAP on the upper airways.

2. To discuss the principles of humidification of breathing.

3. To explain the operating mode and distinctions of different heated humidifiers.

Summary Upper airway complications are very common during noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation, particularly continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Acceptance of CPAP is compromised if such complaints occur; thus proactive management is very important for the achievement of good compliance. The use of conventional heated humidifiers is standard therapy when complications with upper airways arise during CPAP therapy. The performance of different types of heated humidifiers has not been fully considered in terms of their therapeutic effect. In particular, changes in ambient conditions should be taken into account. Advanced controlled heated humidifiers with heated breathing tubes monitor the amount of air flow, e.g. when mouth or mask leaks occur, as well as changes in ambient temperature. These more advanced techniques have been proven to reduce side-effects.