Innovative Sleep Apnea Masks Increase Treatment Efficacy

New-generation positive airway pressure (PAP) masks improve fit, comfort, and ease of use in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

The ResMed (San Diego, CA, USA) AirFit N20 and AirFit F20 masks feature an innovative silicone cushion, the InfinitySeal, which adapts to the unique facial contours of each patient in order to increase comfort, improve fit, and reduce leakage. The non-invasive, vented N20 mask provides an air seal around the patient’s nose and upper lip, while the F20 covers the mouth as well. The masks are held in place with adjustable head straps, and connect to a continuous PAP (CPAP) device air delivery hose via a standard 22mm swivel.


The masks are comprised of four sub-assemblies: a plush headgear to assists in a more comfortable night’s therapy; flexible fabric-lined frame for added comfort, with built-in easy to use magnetic clips for quick fitting; the InfinitySeal silicone cushion; and an elbow/short tube assembly, which also incorporates the exhaust port. Tests demonstrated that the AirFit N20 fit an astonishing 99% of patients tested, and the AirFit F20 fit 97%, regardless of facial structure, gender, or age.

“These new masks address two of the biggest catalysts for effective sleep apnea treatment: fit and comfort,” said Mick Farrell, CEO of ResMed. “Patients rate mask comfort as the number one reason that can help them stay on therapy. Not only are the F20 and N20 our most comfortable masks ever, they’re easier and faster for clinicians to fit on patients the first time, helping more people suffering from sleep apnea adhere to this life-changing therapy.”

CPAP devices deliver a stream of compressed air via a hose to a nose mask, keeping the airway open so that unobstructed breathing becomes possible, therefore reducing or preventing apneas and hypopneas. It is important to understand that it is the air pressure, and not the movement of the air, that prevents the apneas. This has the additional benefit of reducing or eliminating the extremely loud snoring that sometimes accompanies OSA.

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