Respironics Total Face Mask ?

AeroScout · Post by **AeroScout** » Sun Dec 10, 2006 10:44 pm

I'm interested in knowing if anyone uses or has used this mask...The testimonials are very positive on the product page, would just like some personal input. Have Used 2 other O/N FM's but just cannot reach any meaningfull compliance, have exausted the nasal option. Please Help

Scout

Offerocker · Post by **Offerocker** » Sun Dec 10, 2006 11:33 pm

Hi Scout!

I HAD the FP431, but it wasn't for me; have excellent luck with the Activa mask - virtually no leaks. May also depend on your sleeping position, whether or not you have a moustache/beard, etc.

btw, nephew is in Cavalry now! Gung-ho outfit to be sure.

Best of luck in your search.

rotoplooker · Post by **rotoplooker** » Mon Dec 11, 2006 6:20 am

I bought a Respironics Total Face mask a long time back. I tried it for 2 nights and found out that you need the right kind of thinner shaped face for it to get close to fitting. It's rigid and you have to bend it to get a seal and it is very claustrophobic in there!. The mask seems to to appear much more crude when you see it out of the box rather than internet pictures. This is of course my view and as always every users views will differ.

I too have no meaningful compliance, after a long time, but the Hybrid is the most comfortable and least problematic mask for me so far. I only get a few hours a night with it though.

Roto

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CollegeGirl · Post by **CollegeGirl** » Mon Dec 11, 2006 7:00 am

Offerocker,
OP is not referring to the 431, but to the Total Face mask. OP (that's Original Poster), I can tell you that in over a year here, I have NEVER seen anyone post and say they liked it. I think I would try just about every other mask out there before I would spend my hard-earned cash on this one.

Offerocker · Post by **Offerocker** » Mon Dec 11, 2006 7:51 am

Thanks, CollegeGirl!

I clicked on the mask he had posted in his profile, and it was a 431.

I haven't tried any of the FF masks myself, and from what you said, don't think I'd add it to my list.

I've had good suction with the Activa, but lately (honeymoon over?) it has been giving me a nice 'lump' on L side of forehead, as I sleep towards my left side.
Also, it covers my face from between the eyes and my upper lip!

If I'm not 'dead tired', those features have been bothering me lately. I wish the framework were smaller, instead of one size with different sized inserts.

I know this is off-subject, but I guess I'm just 'venting', and hopefully someone will have suggestions for me.

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Julie · Post by **Julie** » Mon Dec 11, 2006 1:14 pm

Offer... It's not a full face mask. It's a TOTAL face mask (very limited use). Go take a look on the website.

WillSucceed · Post by **WillSucceed** » Mon Dec 11, 2006 1:50 pm

I trialed the Total mask and it scared the crap out of me. Shades of Hannibal Lecter (sp?)! I found that any rolling around made for leaks and the air blowing around my face was annoying.

curtcurt46 · Post by **curtcurt46** » Mon Dec 11, 2006 2:02 pm

Welcome to the forum.

I have been known to have associated with a few cavalrymen over the years. I got my spurs in the 2d ACR as a young artillery cavalryman.

The ResMed Ultra Mirage Full Face Mask has worked well for me. You have to play with it to eliminate the leaks, but once you get to know its prone spots you have got it made. Sorry I can't compare to any other FF masks. I have 3 ResMed masks and they are all well made and work.

Offerocker · Post by **Offerocker** » Mon Dec 11, 2006 2:23 pm

Hmmmmmmmmm

Interesting picture - difficult for me to tell if I'm looking at a framework around the face or that entire area is see-through?
That 'triangle' area doesn't look very comfortable.
So, how does one adjust to fit for a smaller face if it's one-size-fits-all?

I envisioned a FFM as a half-baloon effect, but then, that's just MY imagination, .

CRMW · Post by **CRMW** » Mon Dec 11, 2006 5:24 pm

A half balloon mask is a good as description as any, well maybe a slice off the side of the balloon.

I have seen the mask and talked to my DME about it. He did not recommend it for myself, and mentioned that it is primarily for institutions. (hospitals, extended care etc.) It seals by way of a very wide silicone seal to attempt to fit anyone. If your face is too large and the gasket covers your eyes or mouth, it could be trimmed.

The design allows institutions to stock 1 mask for everyone, particularly people that can not respond or give input about leaks or comfort.

CRMW

AeroScout · Post by **AeroScout** » Mon Dec 11, 2006 5:37 pm

Yes I Was referring to the Respironics Total Face Mask...I'm using the FP431 now and due to the higher pressure that my unit is set at 16 It leaks constantly unless I cinch it down tight. This causes it to be uncomfortable and causes skin irritation and breakdown on my forehead, nose bridge. Also I find that I MUST allow my cheeks to puff out under pressure just to get any type of seal on the sides, and this is just plain old annoying.
For the most part I figured and hoped that the Respironics TFM would possibly allow for more contact area than the traditional FFM, therefore allowing for sealing forces and contact area to be spread out over a larger area and eliminate the pressure points and gaps. Thanks for the input ... appreciate tour time and trouble

FYI Served with AirCav in Central Highlands RVN as a lift and scout pilot

Offerocker · Post by **Offerocker** » Mon Dec 11, 2006 7:03 pm

Very interesting - THANKS!

But now I'm wondering what all that blowing air does to the eyes?

AeroScout: Have you tried the Activa nasal mask?
It sucks on your face like a leech! HA HA Not that any onf us would know, but that's how I describe it. Excellent sealing capabilities.
I do have the wrong size though (DME error - he didn't even measure me! - plus, I didn't know/ask about sizes - duh).

Kathleen

CRMW · Post by **CRMW** » Mon Dec 11, 2006 7:38 pm

The RT at the DME tried out the mask one night just to see how it feels and there isn't a problem as the air is not blowing across the eyes. I guess the mask fills up and the only moving air is from the intake to the mouth and the mouth to the exhaust. He did mention that the mask did bring out some claustrophobic feelings, but nothing that can't be dealt with.

This guy does go the extra mile, can you imagine trying out all these masks when you don't have sleep apnea!

Offerocker · Post by **Offerocker** » Mon Dec 11, 2006 8:48 pm

CRMW wrote:The RT at the DME tried out the mask one night just to see how it feels and there isn't a problem as the air is not blowing across the eyes. I guess the mask fills up and the only moving air is from the intake to the mouth and the mouth to the exhaust. He did mention that the mask did bring out some claustrophobic feelings, but nothing that can't be dealt with.

This guy does go the extra mile, can you imagine trying out all these masks when you don't have sleep apnea!

No! He must be one curious cat! And I bet there's many people who are thankful that he is. We need so many more like that. He's sure to have empathy also.
You are very fortunate to have him in your treatment plan - and I'm jealous!.

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