Hybrid mask doesn't work!!

I have been on xpap therapy for almost two years. I have a Respironics Auto Bi-pap machine, EncoreViewer software and I check my detail readouts daily. I thought I was reasonably knowledgeable about xpap therapy, but I recently experienced a disappointing experience with the Hybrid full face mask. I have been using nasal pillow masks (I like the Optimax and the Swift LT). My pressure with the pillow masks is MAX IPAP=12 and MIN EPAP=6. With these masks my API averages around 3-4. I'm satisfied with these masks, but wanted to try the Hybrid mask as a backup for when I get congested.

After experimenting with different size nasal pillows and cushions, I settled for the medium size on both (cut off the chin piece for comfort). I don't have any leak problems and can tolerate the mask throughout the night. BUT MY API's ARE TERRIBLE! They average around 20! I have tried MAX IPAP from 12 to 20 (20 almost blew my nose off and the straps have to to really tight). No matter what the setting is, the machine always jumps up to it and the high APIs occur at all settings. After 10 nights of experimentation and frustration, I'm about to give up on this mask, but I wonder if any of you have experienced the same problem or if you have any suggestions.

Sounds like the Hybrid is not working for you. Try a different mask. There are several free test drives going on - you can read more about it in the link below in my signature block.

Good luck!
B.

Rasch,

The first release of this mask in August 2006 had a high vent rate that some automatic machines responded to by raising the pressure as you describe. Shortly after introduction the manufacturer recognized this problem and released the Adaptive Flow version which had a normal vent rate.

When did you purchase the mask? I guess even today some suppliers could have the original release still in stock by a fluke.

Please check the cover of the instruction manual that came with your mask. At the top, centered, it should say Hybrid. On the next line, right justified, should be Hybrid Interface. The third line, right justified, should say Instructions for Use - xxxxx Rev X. Please let me know what the third line on your manual says.

First step here is to determine if you have the original shell or the Adaptive Flow shell. I should be able to determine that from the revision number.

BTW, the Hybrid has been a life saver for me; nothing to irritate my nose bridge; nose can be scratched while wearing mask; not prone to leaks if adjusted properly; good for side sleeping; and I even ocassionally sleep on my stomach (Falcon position) for 60 to 90 minutes sessions.

Regards,

Rooster,

Thanks for responding to my problem. My Hybrid manual does have the word Hybrid centered at the top and the words "Hybrid Interface" right justified on the next line. After "Instructions for Use" , I have the following "-05080 Rev D", below that Is the Lot Number-015-080318.

I noted some typos in my original post. It should read that my AHI is around 20 with this mask. As I mentioned, I use Respironics Optilife and Resmeds Swift LT. My average AHIs for these masks is 4-5. I also have a Resmed Quattro full face mask and my AHI is around 6 with this mask. I don't use the Quattro much, because it irritates the bridge of my nose, which is why I tried the Hybrid.

I was anxious to get the Hybrid, but am totally clueless why my AHI is so high with this mask.

Ron

That is the manual that comes with the Adaptive Flow mask so the problem should not be the vent rate.

I am also at a loss to explain the increase in AHI.

What are your leak rate when using the Optimax and the Swift LT?

How did you feel the days after you used the Hybrid compared to the days you used the other masks?

My average leak rates are:

Optilife = 35

Swift LT = 37

Hybrid = 50

I feel good in the morning with both Optilife and Swift LT. I feel lousy in the morning with Hybrid (as if I wasn't using a mask at all). I may wait a while and try again or possibly call the Manufacturer, Respcare (they show a tech support number in the manual).

On a different subject---I'm new to the forum and when I try to reply using my user ID, I get an error message saying my username is already in use. When I leave the username blank I can post a reply although it gives me the username "guest". I notice that other threads don't have this problem. What am I doing wrong?

Hi,
Have you tried the Hybrid Liberty Mirage? The specialist who fitted it on me when I was sent home last week for my first go at CPAP said it was MADE for me! And he was right. I might be new, but WOW I had no leaks at all. It was comfortable, no marks in morning and I could either breathe through mouth or nose with ease. (I'll find out the real rating when I go back to him. DOn't knowhow to do it myself yet. You guys are so knowledgable! I'm not even thinking of trying another mask. Top Marks from me! All the best to you. Hope you find one.

I hate to see you miss out on a wonderful night sleep with Hybrid.
If your leak rate is 20 with the adaptive flow Hybrid, you are leaking.
Try larger pillows and if that doesnt, try a smaller mouth cushion and chincup.
With the Hybrid, you get so many combos that playing with it a bit will change a lot of things.

I have had such a great experience with this mask that I have turned some friends on to it that are "on the hose". (my last overnight fishing trip, for instance, had 2 very bad apnea cases I educated)
Most love it. One got only one set of pillows (one DME was sneeky).One got the extra large holes from an online dealer, but Respcare sent a free shell when he called.
This is a wile ago, so they are probably out of circulation by now. Check your holes. Do they look big? Did you get all 3 pillow sets and all three mouth cushions? DME's might try to pull a fast one and keep some of the extra stuff in the box.

neverbetter wrote:.........If your leak rate is 20 with the adaptive flow Hybrid, you are leaking.
.....

NB,

How do you come to that conclusion? The "Passive Exhalation Port Flow" chart that comes with the Adaptive Flow Hybrid masks shows a leak rate of about 40 lpm at 10 cm and about 30 lpm at 5 cm.

If the leak rate is 20, I am not even sure the machine is turned on.

Regards,