Computational Model of Respiratory Tract Dispels Concerns Over CPAP Safety

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is safe and effective in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) syndrome, according to study findings published in the journal Respiratory Physiology & Neurobiology.

“This comprehensive investigation highlights the crucial significance of CPAP in treating OSA syndrome, largely by promoting the maintenance of an open airway without excessive strain on airway tissues,” wrote researchers from the school of mechanical and mechatronic engineering at the University of Technology Sydney in Australia. “The findings significantly contribute to our understanding of the complex physiological changes brought about by CPAP treatment, reinforcing its effectiveness and significance in the context of OSA syndrome therapy.”

To investigate concerns about potential damage to lung tissue from high pressure or turbulent airflow, researchers used a computation model of the full respiratory tract with CPAP therapy compared with ambient conditions.

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“Unlike previous studies that have focused primarily on the nasal cavity or specific sections of the respiratory system, our study has used advanced computational fluid dynamics to understand how CPAP therapy affects different parts of the respiratory system, from the nose down to the smallest airways in the lungs,” said Suvash C. Saha, PhD, the study’s lead researcher.

According to the study, CPAP significantly boosts static pressure in the airway without adverse changes in airflow velocity or harmful shear stress on lung tissue. With its narrow anatomy, the larynx experiences the most shear stress, but CPAP overall provides substantial support to airway walls against collapse.

“Our study helps dispel doubts about the safety of CPAP therapy by systematically analyzing various parameters like airway pressure, airflow velocity, and shear stress,” Dr Saha said. “This contributes to a better understanding of how CPAP supports the airway without causing additional strain or damage.”

References

Saha SC, Huang X, Francis I, Saha G. Airway stability in sleep apnea: assessing continuous positive airway pressure efficiency. Respir Physiol Neurobiol. 2024;325:104265. doi: 10.1016/j.resp.2024.104265

Sleep apnea patients can breathe easy about CPAP therapy, study finds. News release. University of Technology Sydney; May 7, 2024. Accessed May 23, 2024.