Wireless CPAP patient monitoring: accuracy study

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of a novel method for transmitting continuous positive airway pressure treatment (CPAP) compliance and usage data. Using wireless and Internet technology to transmit/receive clinical data, we examined and compared these data to the same data collected using a traditional flow generator-to-PC interface. Previously diagnosed patients were given commercially available flow generators to use in the home setting for a 30-day period. They then returned to transmit these data to a base site as well as to download the same data to a floppy disk for comparative purposes. The study took place at a freestanding sleep disorders center in Atlanta, Georgia, and two HME providers in Buffalo, New York, and Boston, Massachusetts. The patients comprised 21 adults who had been previously diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea; there were 7 stable CPAP users with at least 1 year on therapy and 14 new users. Data were collected on CPAP units with an integrated computer chip that collects compliance data defined as mask-on duration. Fourteen subjects used a flow generator that collected additional efficacy data such as apnea-hypopnea index. The study confirmed 100% agreement between data sets transmitted wirelessly and the same data set downloaded onsite across all six clinical parameters. This study demonstrates the reliability of this wireless technology for transmitting compliance and efficacy data in both new and established users of CPAP. Potential benefits of this technology include advanced compliance and efficacy along with a potential reduction in health-care costs.