Is it ok to use CPAP/BiPAP with full face mask, after septoplasty and turbinate reduction?

Question

I have sleep apnea, AFIB, history of blood clots and taking Xarelto. I use a BiPAP with full face mask. I'm currently scheduled to have septoplasty and turbinate reduction. My ENT said he was ok with me using my BiPAP. But he also said I will have some congestion for up to a week. I can't go one night without CPAP, due to my AFIB heart condition. I've had conflicting answers from other ENT's stating I would need to hold off the BiPAP for a few days.

Jose Barrera, MD · Answer

Obstructive sleep apnea is a medical condition whereby the upper airway tissues collapse internally causing apneas (pauses in breathing for more than 10 seconds) and hypopneas (a drop in airflow leading to arousal or a drop in oxygenation).  Given the severity of the symptoms associated with OSA, it is important to continue using PAP or have airway surgery to improve the obstructive events during the healing period. The question of when to resume CPAP after septoplasty is a conversation to be had between the operating surgeon and the patient given the severity of disease.

William Marshall Guy, MD · Answer

Hello Mark414,This is a question best answered by your surgeon.  There are risks with using positive air pressure following a nose surgery.  This includes the risk of drying out the nose increasing the risk for bleeding, especially since you are on a blood thinner.  There will also be nasal congestion that will make it harder for air to enter.  Conversely, as you mentioned you are on CPAP for a medical condition that may worsen if you are not using it.  To weight the pros and cons you need to discuss this with your operating surgeon and be aware of the risks, including the risk of not operating.I hope this helps and good luck.

Is it ok to use CPAP/BiPAP with full face mask, after septoplasty and turbinate reduction?

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Is it ok to use CPAP/BiPAP with full face mask, after septoplasty and turbinate reduction?

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Septoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.