BiLevel Pressure Support (PS)

[zzzZorro]

I have been trying to understand just what PS is and what it is for with a BiLevel (Vauto).  I know it sets the separation between EPAP and IPAP so it maintains a constant following/separation of the set PS number/pressure.  I'd like to know what it actually does and what it's purpose was to accomplish if anyone could please explain it.  Have made many internet searches and come up with nothing to answer my queston.

In my case my Vauto is running at 13/21 PS-1 and providing (at least temporarily) consistently good results.  The PS-1 has been providing improved results over PS-2 at the same pressures.  Seems to me the PS-1 has it leashed down pretty tight..

What am I missing?

[Sleeprider]

I think reading the various manufacturer titration protocols, recommended for their BiPAP or VPAP machines will tell you what you need to know. In conventional bilevel titration, EPAP is used to treat obstructive apnea, and pressure support increases may be increased to treat hypopnea and flow limitations, or in the event of central apneas, the pressure support will be reduced. The default pressure support is 4-cm and increases or decreases generally follow the titration protocols. Bilevel therapy can also be used to offset the effects of a restrictive pulmonary condition (COPD, Asthma) and can help with upper airway resistance syndrome. Bilevel can be used to target increased ventilation, lower CO2 and better oxygenation. These latter functions tend to be based on non-invasive ventilation protocols.

Bilevels with backup rates are a higher level of therapy that can target alveolar ventilation rates, breaths per minute and as treatment for central apnea, cheyne stokes respiration and other issues. Do a search for Resmed Titration Protocols or the same in Respironics, and lots of information will come up.

[Walla Walla]

In your case the only advantages are your pressure can go beyond 20cm and you can tailor delivery of the breaths if needed. Pressure support adjustment I believe was mainly to help those who needed assistance with breathing due to Weight or COPD. Or at least I think that's what it was designed for.

[zzzZorro]

Thank you gentlemen, much appreciated

[SarcasticDave94]

In your case the only advantages are your pressure can go beyond 20cm and you can tailor delivery of the breaths if needed.  Pressure support adjustment I believe was mainly to help those who needed assistance with breathing due to Weight or COPD. Or at least I think that's what it was designed for.

I'm greatly honored. PS was built for me.