Emerging treatments
Average volume-assured pressure support (AVAPS)
AVAPS is a hybrid mode of ventilation that provides a more consistent tidal volume similar to volume-cycled ventilation, but with the comfort of pressure support ventilation.[64] In patients with obesity hypoventilation syndrome, AVAPS when compared with bi-level positive airway pressure was more effective at improving nocturnal transcutaneous CO₂ levels and arterial PaCO₂ at the end of 6 weeks.[64] However, sleep quality and quality of life were no different between the two modalities. In patients with COPD, AVAPS has been shown to decrease transcutaneous CO₂ levels more significantly compared with bi-level positive airway pressure, and was preferred by patients.[119]
Use of this content is subject to our disclaimer