ResMed Quattro FX mask

[charliemack]

Like we all find out one mask doesn't fit all. When the Quattro FX came out I thought I would try it. Reviews seemed to be favorable. After using it 3 nights I went back to my old Mirage Quattro. Some things I experienced/found:
1. Leakage: First night was no problem and then the next 2 nights were a disaster. Mask liners like Remzzz did not help actually exacerbated the problem.
2. Quality: Gel cushion is inferior to the Mirage Quattro mask. Thinner material
3. Sizing: Used the template that came with the mask to determine size. After checking it many times I finally determined that I am in between a medium and large for a correct fit. Mask itself is much smaller than Mirage Quattro
4. Straps: Not able to comfortably adjust

My first and only mask has been the Mirage Quattro and have used it for over 4 years. However, during that time I found that the quality of mask cushions has varied and after over 1400 nights of using it I think one becomes able to notice changes. Since the cushion is one of the major parts of the mask you would think that it would improve not become cheaper.

My thinking is that if they want to offer masks then produce the best or get out of that side of the business. Offering a (his and hers) mask on the FX is just marketing hype. Put that time in a better quality mask. As we all have found out manufacturing quality has waned over the years and Res Med is following the trend with this mask.

Enough said. I know there are those who love the mask and I wish I were one of you but it looks like I have to search elsewhere if I want to change.

[Roger2]

I have had the exact same experience that you described. At first the Quaattro FX seemed a big improvement however after using it the second time, it leaked most of the night and continued for the next two weeks I tried it. I kept tabs on the leakage by downloading the data onto the ResScan program which showed almost constant leakage which I slept through. Like you, I also returned to my old ResMed Mirage Quattro and although not as comfortable to wear, I had almost perfect nights as far as leakage is concerned.

The newer FX is smaller which gave me a feeling of claustrophobia but was easier to see around since it does not have the head pad blocking my view and was somewhat more comfortable to wear but the leakage defeats the therapeutic value of the CPAP.

pax
Roger

[Gazby]

Ive just got an FX and have used a Quattro all the time, doesnt sound as though Im in for a good time

[kempo]

When It came time for my insurance to buy me a new mask last year I got a Quattro FX. It worked great for a couple of days. After that it started to leak. Nothng I tried would stop the leaks not even mask liners. I went back to the Swift FX using chin strap and tape. Full face mask do not work for me.

[2 B Sleeping Soundly]

Just a thought...

I know it may mean money out of pocket (unless you can get a DME and use insurance to provide it), but have you tried the 'replacement parts' route? It could allow you to keep the mask that has worked for you for years and give it a new feel and performance. Maybe worth a try?

https://www.cpap.com/productpage-replac ... dgear.html

John

[2 B Sleeping Soundly]

Charliemack wrote:
My first and only mask has been the Mirage Quattro and have used it for over 4 years. However, during that time I found that the quality of mask cushions has varied and after over 1400 nights of using it I think one becomes able to notice changes. Since the cushion is one of the major parts of the mask you would think that it would improve not become cheaper.

Sorry, I misread your post and didn't catch this. I bet the replacements parts for your mask have become inferior as well. I agree that it makes no sense to make changes to masks (quality/design) if it is not necessary... if it isn't broke, don't fix it. But it seems that money/profits rule over quality these days. When did it become the 'norm' that manufacturers can't offer quality and still make money?

Good luck in your search.

John

[chunkyfrog]

I find the Respironics full life is a better fit for me, and the design is more stable.

[Ineedanap]

I tried this mask on at one of the brick and mortar and really liked the fit. I knew it was hit and miss and hoped it would be a hit for me. The darned thing blows air into my eyes all night long. It wants to be in one place on my face but needs to be in another. The worst part is the hard sides that support it below your eyes move it every time I roll over. It will be fine then the whalebone sides will make it shift so its leaking on one side and jammed into my cheek on the other. I paid almost $200 out of pocket for something that would cost around $40 if they were deregulated. I can buy a rifle at walmart but not a mask for my cpap.

Needless to say I am very frustrated.My other masks that seemed to work in the beginning, have stopped working well also. Buying new seals, also out of pocket is the next step but I'm really frustrated. I used to love my cpap, now I miss just laying down without, filling the tank, greasing my nose, putting my hair back and strapping a hunk of plastic to my face. Remember rolling over without your hose following you and your mask pressing against the pillow?