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Evaluation of a new pediatric positive airway pressure mask
Insights
A new pediatric continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) mask for children aged 2-7 years demonstrated comparable apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and high parent satisfaction. This Pixi mask offers a suitable alternative for pediatric CPAP therapy.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Pulmonology
- Sleep Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Limited availability of pediatric masks for continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) in the US.
- Clinicians frequently adapt adult masks for pediatric use.
- A dedicated pediatric CPAP mask for children under 7 years was previously unavailable.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) equivalence of a new pediatric CPAP mask (Pixi) for children aged 2-7 years.
- To assess the acceptability and usability of the Pixi mask by children and their parents/guardians.
Main Methods:
- In-lab polysomnography (PSG) was performed at baseline and after a titration period with the Pixi mask.
- Patients used their existing mask and then the Pixi mask at home for defined periods.
- Parental and patient feedback on mask comfort, usability, and sleep quality was collected.
Main Results:
- The Pixi mask showed a non-significant difference in AHI (1.1 ± 1.5/h) compared to previous masks (2.6 ± 5.4/h).
- Parents reported positive experiences regarding child's sleep restfulness and ease of sleep onset/maintenance.
- The Pixi mask was highly rated for minimal skin irritation and ease of removal.
Conclusions:
- The Pixi pediatric CPAP mask is a suitable option for children aged 2-7 years.
- It provides an effective alternative to existing CPAP mask options for pediatric patients.
- The mask demonstrates good tolerability and parental satisfaction.
Study Objectives:
The choice and variety of pediatric masks for continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is limited in the US. Therefore, clinicians often prescribe modified adult masks. Until recently a mask for children aged < 7 years was not available. This study evaluated apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) equivalence and acceptability of a new pediatric CPAP mask for children aged 2-7 years (Pixi; ResMed Ltd, Sydney, Australia).
Methods:
Patients aged 2-7 years were enrolled and underwent in-lab baseline polysomnography (PSG) using their previous mask, then used their previous mask and the VPAP III ST-A flow generator for ≥ 10 nights at home. Thereafter, patients switched to the Pixi mask for ≥ 2 nights before returning for a PSG during PAP therapy via the Pixi mask. Patients then used the Pixi mask at home for ≥ 21 nights. Patients and their parents/guardians returned to the clinic for follow-up and provided feedback on the Pixi mask versus their previous mask.
Results:
AHI with the Pixi mask was 1.1 ± 1.5/h vs 2.6 ± 5.4/h with the previous mask (p = 0.3538). Parents rated the Pixi mask positively for: restfulness of the child's sleep, trouble in getting the child to sleep, and trouble in having the child stay asleep. The Pixi mask was also rated highly for leaving fewer or no marks on the upper lip and under the child's ears, and being easy to remove.
Conclusions:
The Pixi mask is suitable for children aged 2-7 years and provides an alternative to other masks available for PAP therapy in this age group.
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