초록 ▼

Improved methodology and apparatus for the clinical study and treatment of sleep apnea which incorporates one or more of the following features: (1) application of mono-level, alternating high and low level, or variable positive airway pressure generally within the airway of the patient with the mon

Improved methodology and apparatus for the clinical study and treatment of sleep apnea which incorporates one or more of the following features: (1) application of mono-level, alternating high and low level, or variable positive airway pressure generally within the airway of the patient with the mono-level, high and low level, or variable airway pressure generally being coordinated with and/or responsive to the spontaneous respiration of the patient, (2) usage of adjustably programmable pressure ramp circuitry capable of producing multiple pressure ramp cycles of predetermined duration and pattern whereby the ramp cycles may be customized to accommodate the specific needs of an individual sleep apnea patient so as to ease the patient's transition from wakefulness to sleep, (3) remote control or patient-sensed operation of the apparatus, (4) employment of safety circuitry, reset circuitry and minimum system leak assurance circuitry, controls and methods, and (5) utilization of clinical control circuitry whereby sleep disorder data may be compiled and appropriate therapy implemented during a one-night sleep study.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] Apparatus for delivering pressurized gas to the airway of a patient, said apparatus comprising:gas flow generator means for providing a flow of gas;conduit means for delivery of gas flow to the airway of a patient;pressure controller means cooperable with said gas flow ge

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] Apparatus for delivering pressurized gas to the airway of a patient, said apparatus comprising:gas flow generator means for providing a flow of gas;conduit means for delivery of gas flow to the airway of a patient;pressure controller means cooperable with said gas flow generator means to provide for flow of gas within said conduit means and within the airway of a patient at selectively variable pressures; anda minimum system leakage assurance circuit arrangement for assuring that said apparatus discharges a minimum system leakage flow during usage by a patient;said minimum system leakage assurance circuit arrangement comprising means for applying a leakage test pressure and for thence discontinuing application of the leakage test pressure upon detection of a predetermined minimum system leakage flow.