Methods and devices with leak detection

Abstract

Automated methods provide leak detection that may be implemented in a respiratory treatment apparatus. In some embodiments, the detection apparatus may automatically determine and score different types of leak events during a treatment session, including, for example, continuous mouth leak events and valve-like mouth leak events. The detection methodologies may be implemented as a data analysis of a specific purpose computer or a detection device that measures a respiratory airflow or a respiratory treatment apparatus that provides a respiratory treatment regime based on the detected leak. In some embodiments, the leak detector may determine and report a leak severity index. Such an index may combine data that quantifies different types of leak events.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims priority to US Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 369,247, filed July 30, 2010, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. technical field [0003] The present technology relates to methods and devices for leak detection associated with respiratory therapy devices. More specifically, some embodiments of the present technology may relate to automated leak detection in respiratory therapy devices that can be used for continuous positive airway pressure therapy. Background technique [0004] Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) suffers from periodic apnea or insufficiency of breathing during sleep that stops only when the patient wakes up. The best form of treatment for OSA patients is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), which is applied by a blower (eg, a compressor) through an attached hose and mask. The positive pressure prevents the patient's airway from...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0012] 1. The patient's arousal rate and / or apnea and hypopnea index ("AHI") may be increased due to leakage, affecting the patient's sleep structure

[0013] 2. Potentially reduced ventilatory support due to nasal flow leaking out of the mouth, which is a particular concern for patients on Bi-level / VPAP therapy

[0014] 3. One-way nasal airway may be established, leading to upper airway dehydration, congestion and release of inflammatory mediators

In addition, unidirectional nasal flow increases nasal airway resistance, which in turn increases oral airflow propensity, resulting in more mouth leaks in a cycle

[0015] 4. Patient compliance may be reduced due to nasal symptoms

[0016] 5. Since the obtained measured total flow signal may not correctly calculate the flow at the mouth, erroneous behavior occurs in the patient flow estimation and control algorithm of the flow generator

In particular, excessive oral airflow can lead to misaligned teeth (malocclusion), forward head posture, irregular collarbone growth, and increased susceptibility to ear infections

Images