Statement regarding Phillips CPAP and NIV machines

We have been made aware of an issue with Philips Bi-Level Positive Airway Pressure (Bi-Level PAP), Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), and mechanical ventilator devices. 

Philips has issued a global Field Safety Notice advising that, under certain conditions, the foam part of the machine can be damaged - please see the  Philips website: Medical Device Field Safety Notice (Outside of U.S.) - Philips Respironics.

These conditions - very high temperatures, high humidity and the use of a non-approved cleaning solution - are rare in the UK.

The NHS has been working closely with Philips and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), who are responsible for patient safety.

There have been no known safety issues related to these products reported in the UK, and no adverse events in the UK in relation to these devices have been reported to the MHRA. 

For most patients, the risk of stopping using these devices is far greater than the risk from the issue that Philips has reported.

The MHRA has advised that patients should continue to use these devices.

Philips will be gradually replacing the devices.

They have asked that users of the devices register with them - please see the notice linked above, including the section 'What you need to do'.

We have started to purchase machines from a different supplier, but you will appreciate that this is going to take some time to organise.

We would really appreciate it if you did not contact the sleep clinic about this, as we have been inundated with calls and emails and we are struggling to keep up with just our general messages.

We are going to be very busy over the next few months dealing with this issue.

We and/or Philips will contact you when necessary.

Thank you for your patience and understanding.  

The Service provides a comprehensive diagnostic and treatment service for adults with sleep disordered breathing, in particular Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA).

You may need the service if you have consulted your GP about:

  • Excessive snoring
  • Breathing problems while sleeping
  • Feeling excessively sleepy in the daytime

The team provides treatment with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) on the NHS for those with a confirmed diagnosis of OSA.

Referral process

You will first need to consult your GP, who will need to refer you.

You will then be able to use the NHS e-Referral Service to arrange a sleep study and clinic appointment - please see the NHS website: Appointment booking.

Treatment

We have access to a comprehensive range of diagnostic tests ranging from simple home monitoring to detailed in-patient sleep studies in our dedicated Sleep Laboratory.

We will review the studies on a weekly basis and if the results show you need treatment for OSA, our dedicated Specialist Sleep Nurse will spend more time with you to explain your treatment and provide you with all the equipment you need.

Drop-in sessions (existing patients)

Our Wednesday drop-in clinic is postponed at present, but we are offering an equipment collection-only service (masks, tubes, filters, etc) on Wednesdays, 8.00am-12.00pm.

Otherwise, please contact us for a different time (this must be booked - please do not turn up without prior arrangement).

Clinics are by phone unless otherwise arranged.

Face-to-face troubleshooting appointments can be made, but these must be booked in advance.

Location

On Saturn Ward at the Great Western Hospital - fourth floor (please see Floor plan).

Contact

Sleep Specialist Nurse
Tel: 01793 604098 (Monday-Friday, 8.00am-4.00pm)
Email: gwh.sleepservice@nhs.net

Further information

  • For more information about OSA please see the NHS website: Sleep apnoea apnoea.
  • The Sleep Apnoea Trust Association (SATA) provides advice and support for sleep apnoea patients, their partners and families - please see the SATA website.
  • Paul Clarke at Cassiobury Court has produced a useful guide explaining how alcohol consumption can negatively impact on sleep: The Comprehensive Guide to Alcohol and Sleep.
  • Hope2Sleep is a registered charity which sells comfort products, provides support services for exsisting sleep apnoea patients, and helps raise awareness of the condition.