V-Com Device for CPAP Adaptation
A new company SleepRes has introduced a device known as V-Com to allow for a graduated adaptation to early use of CPAP pressures. The device inserts into the tubing and fits between the mask and the compressor. The result is V-Com alters inspiratory pressure to keep it lower when first in use. Interestingly, it only affects pressure while breathing in and has no impact on expiratory pressure.
Although there are clear benefits for such a device, and early reviews indicate some may benefit, there are several underlying premises that might not yield the results anticipated by the new company SleepRes.
First and foremost, the device is built for CPAP, the mode we have frequently described as outmoded, outdated, if not obsolete. Dual pressure devices like bilevel and its more advanced versions of auto-bilevel or ASV deliver pressurized air so much more gently, most patients would adapt rapidly if prescribed these modes early in the process. As systems operate now, however, a person must fail CPAP before they receive one of these advanced devices. And, regrettably, many people who fail CPAP give up on PAP entirely for 1 to 5 years before reconsidering any device.
V-com is also geared toward inspiration, imagining that most people find discomfort breathing in with pressurized air. Nothing could be further from the truth. Many people can tolerate higher inspiratory pressures, because it feels good to finally feel like you are getting a full breath. But, breathing out against these high pressures is very uncomfortable. V-Com doesn’t address this problem in the last.
Practically speaking, it’s apparent many sleep professionals will continue to prescribe CPAP; and so perhaps V-Com will help some individuals adapt more readily to CPAP by going through a graduated process.