BiPAP
Pronunciation: BY-pap
Also written as: BiPAP — Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure
Bilevel positive airway pressure device that provides different pressure levels for inspiration and expiration.
Full Definition
BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) is a type of non-invasive ventilatory support device that delivers two distinct pressure levels: higher inspiratory positive airway pressure (IPAP) during inhalation and lower expiratory positive airway pressure (EPAP) during exhalation. This dual-pressure system makes breathing more comfortable for patients compared to continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. BiPAP is commonly prescribed for patients with sleep-disordered breathing who cannot tolerate CPAP, those with central sleep apnea, or patients requiring ventilatory assistance.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with CPAP; emphasize the bilevel pressure difference in clinical documentation.
In Context
- "The patient was switched from CPAP to BiPAP therapy due to persistent central apneas." — Treatment modification note
- "BiPAP settings were adjusted to IPAP 16 cmH2O and EPAP 8 cmH2O for optimal comfort." — Device titration report