0581 Evaluating the Usability and Performance of a PAP Mask System in the Home Environment

Introduction Positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy is the first-line therapy treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA); however adherence remains challenging. A comfortable and well-fitted mask can improve adaptation and adherence to PAP therapy. This study evaluated the usability and performance of a prototype tube-up nasal cradle mask (WSN) made of a textile material designed for enhanced comfort compared with users’ own mask in a home-environment. Methods Adults who were on PAP therapy for OSA (≥ 6 months) (n = 120, female = 49) evaluated the WSN. Participant’s subjective perceptions on several mask attributes was assessed using an 11-point Likert Scale at days 7, 30 and 90. Objective PAP therapy data were analysed and compared between the users’ own and the prototype mask. Results The WSN mask received significant higher median ratings even after 90 days when compared with users’ own mask in terms of ease of use (10 vs. 9), seal (9 vs. 8), comfort (9.5 vs. 8.5), feeling of material (10 vs. 9) and overall performance (10 vs. 9) (p< 0.05 for all comparisons). Participant’s feedback on the textile is mostly positive, noting its softness and more pleasant texture. After 90 days of usage, the majority of patients (92.6%, 100/108) preferred the WSN for long term use. After 30 and 90 days, therapy data comparing WSN vs. own mask and WSN 30 vs.90 days performance indicated that PAP therapy remained effective based on device usage hours and the residual AHI. Objective leak data from the PAP machine is acceptable. Conclusion The results of this study showed that patients favored the WSN over their own mask. However, there is no difference in PAP usage with the WSN mask possibly because these patients had a very high compliance at the start of the study. Additional research with PAP users who have low compliance may be useful to determine if the WSN mask has an effect on adherence rate in this population. Support (if any) ResMed Pty Ltd, ResMed Inc