Help with setting up AirCurve 11 VAuto BiLevel

[timmytoo]

Hello everyone,

I have a new AirCurve 11 VAuto BiLevel to replace my BiPAP Pro 660P machine. The SDCard does not work on the 660P so I only have the machine settings and no sleep data. My pulmonologist would like to see data for 30-days, that is the reason I bought the AirCurve.

I've been using BiPAP machines since 1997 due to having limb girdle muscular dystrophy. My recent PFT was 18% which is not good. I had a sleep lab test and they tried to have me use VAuto mode, but that does not work for me.

The  660P does not have the settings options that the AirCurve 11 shows. I'm confused on the settings for Ti Max, Ti Min, Rise Time, Trigger, and Cycle.

660P settings
IPAP: 25
EPAP: 7

I set the AirCurve to S mode after testing VAuto mode. I'm still trying to get the steady inhale/exhale that works well for me. I assume the AirCurve can duplicate the experience I have with the 660P.

AirCurve settings
IPAP: 25
EPAP: 7
Ti Range: 1.0s - 2.0s
Rise Time: Min
Trigger: Med
Cycle: Med
Easy Breathe: Off

These settings seem to be close to what I feel on the 660P. There is a sharp transition between IPAP and EPAP. I feel like my 660P acts more like a ventilator with steady in and out.

Does anyone have any advice on what adjustments I can make to duplicate my experience with the 660P?

[Crimson Nape]

Hi timmytoo! -
Turn on Easy Breathe. That should provide a smoother rise in pressure. With it off, it feels like you are going from 0 to 60 in 1 second. Quite unnerving.

Also, if you feel like the pressure drops before you have finished inhaling, try increasing the TiMax.
- Red

[timmytoo]

Thanks Crimson for the reply.

I did use the machine last night for about 4 hours. I think the settings are close, but I switched to my 660P around 4:00 AM. I believe the BiPAP needs to have a steady IPAP and EPAP flow. I would describe it as a ventilator mode.

I needed a machine that can record data so my pulmonologist can see my sleep stats. I have hit the max IPAP a BiPAP can do and my next step would be switching to a non-invasive ventilator.

AirCurve settings
IPAP: 25
EPAP: 8
Ti Range: 1.5s - 2.0s
Easy Breathe: On
Rise Time: N/A
Trigger: Very High
Cycle: Very High

I am going to try again tonight and follow up with my pulmonologist next week.