Your decision to buy a BiPAP machine must be based on the mode of the breathing support the machine offers and not the brand or price of the machine.

The right mode improves the quality of sleep, quality of life, comfort and the effectiveness of the therapy. It is crucial for people suffering from COPD , OHS (obesity-hypoventilation syndrome), neuromuscular disorders or disturbed breathing.

In this article, we will discuss three high-tech modes for BiPAP machines. The modes are AVAPS, iVAPS, and VGPS.

1. AVAPS

AVAPS stands for “average volume-assured pressure support.” The mode is developed by Philips Respironics.

The design of AVAPS ensures a steady average airflow volume. The volume means the amount of air you inhale in a single breath.

The desired volume is delivered instantly. In this mode the machine incrementally adjusts the pressure support to meet your target volume in sometime.

The mode navigates your breathing patterns in a seamless and predictable manner.

Best For:

• It is best for conditions like COPD and OHS.
• Individuals with a slow transition in breathing patterns.

Key Features:

• It adjusts the air pressure slowly in several minutes.
• It gives constant support with utmost comfort.
• The mode is used in machines like the DreamStation AVAPS 25 and Trilogy 100.

2. iVAPS

iVAPS stands for Intelligent Volume Assured Pressure Support. The mode is developed by ResMed, one of the leading brands in the market.

The mode is even more advanced, allowing the device to adjust the pressure and maintain a backup of your respiratory rate based on your breathing requirements in real time.

The mode is like a personal assistant to your breathing. It responds to the real-time requirement of your body.

Best For:

• It is best for patients with neuromuscular diseases.
• Mild or severe COPD patients
• Patients with an irregular breathing pattern

Key Features:

• Flexible support of pressure and breathing rate
• Best for people with an indication of irregular breathing

Mode available in devices like the ResMed Lumis 150 ST-A

3. VGPS

VGPS stands for Volume Guaranteed Pressure Support. The mode is generally used in brands like BMC, Topson, VentMed, and Yuwell.

The mode allows for quick adjustments. It ensures a set tidal volume with each breath. That enables quick adjustment in the pressure as a response to any change in the breathing.

Best For:

• It is best for people with fast and unpredictable changes in breathing patterns.
• Use by patients who require real-time rapid adjustment for each breath.

Key Features:

• Quick changes in pressure with each breath
• Best for controlling changing breathing efforts
• The mode can be found in devices such as the BMC G3 B30VT, VentMed DS8, and Yuwell YH-830.

How to decide which mode is right for you?

Selecting the appropriate BiPAP mode is not a technical decision. It is about your breathing patterns. The following are some modes, as per breathing patterns:

For a constant breathing pattern – AVAPS

For regulating a highly irregular breathing pattern — VGPS

For the regulation of complex neuromuscular conditions—iVAPS

Before making any decision, please consult your doctor or respiratory specialist. Understanding your therapy helps you make an informed decision.