From the Research
CPAP can be an effective treatment for expiratory dynamic airway collapse (EDAC), as it helps to splint open the airways during both inspiration and expiration, preventing collapse. The mechanism behind CPAP's effectiveness in EDAC is that it counteracts the excessive airway collapsibility during exhalation by maintaining positive pressure throughout the respiratory cycle, as noted in a study published in 2018 1. This helps stabilize the airways, particularly in the central and lower airways where EDAC commonly occurs.
Some key points to consider when using CPAP for EDAC include:
- Typical starting pressures range from 5-10 cmH2O, with adjustments made based on symptom response and sleep study results
- Treatment success depends on proper titration of pressure settings and patient adherence to therapy
- Regular follow-up with a sleep or pulmonary specialist is essential to monitor treatment effectiveness and make necessary adjustments to pressure settings
- Alternative treatments, such as bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP), may be necessary if CPAP is insufficient, as suggested by a study published in 1993 2
It's also important to note that CPAP is not the only treatment option for EDAC, and other therapies such as high flow nasal oxygen therapy (HFNOT) may also be effective, as reported in a case study published in 2015 3. Additionally, corrective treatments such as airway stents or tracheobronchoplasty (TBP) may be necessary for severe cases of ECAC, as discussed in a review article published in 2019 4. However, CPAP remains a viable treatment option for EDAC, and its effectiveness can be optimized with proper titration and patient adherence.