CTEX CPAP vs. Conventional CPAP for Managing COVID-19 Respiratory Failure
A New Study Published in the International Journal of Human and Health Sciences
A recent medical study has compared the effectiveness of CTEX CPAP with a conventional CPAP device (Yamind DM28) in treating COVID-19 patients with type 1 respiratory failure. The study, published in February 2025, highlights promising results for the CTEX CPAP device.
Key Findings
Does CTEX CPAP Work Better Than Conventional CPAP?
Yes. The study found that oxygen saturation (SpO₂) increased from an average of 88% to 95% over 12 hours when patients used the CTEX CPAP device. This suggests better oxygenation compared to conventional CPAP.
Who Conducted the Study?
The research was carried out by experts from:
Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh
Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Prince Philip Hospital, NHS, Wales, UK
The lead author is Prof. AKM Akhtaruzzaman, from the Department of Anaesthesia, Analgesia and Intensive Care Medicine at BSMMU.
Study Design & Participants
How Was the Study Conducted?
This was an open-label, double cross-over, non-inferiority trial:
Patients were given conventional CPAP for 1 hour.
They then switched to CTEX CPAP for 12 hours.
Finally, they returned to conventional CPAP for 1 hour.
The primary outcome measured was oxygen saturation (SpO₂) over the 12-hour period.
How Many Patients Were Included?
The study included 39 COVID-19 positive patients with respiratory failure who required oxygen supplementation in the ICU.
Patient Characteristics
Average age: 60.25 ± 11.70 years
Gender ratio: 3.3:1 (male to female)
SpO₂ at admission: 54% of patients had oxygen saturation between 80-90%
Average respiratory rate: 28.15 ± 1.42 breaths per minute
Comorbidities: 92% had at least one pre-existing condition (most commonly hypertension and diabetes mellitus)
Why is CTEX CPAP Different?
Advantages of CTEX CPAP Over Conventional CPAP
Built-in Viral Filter: The CTEX device includes a viral filter within a sealed circuit, reducing the risk of viral transmission compared to conventional CPAP, which is classified as an aerosol-generating procedure (AGP).
Virucidal Copper Technology: Uses copper’s natural antiviral properties to help neutralize viruses.
Lower Oxygen Consumption: Delivers high inspired oxygen while using only 15L per minute at the source—making it ideal for resource-limited settings.
Why Does This Research Matter?
Potential Impact on COVID-19 Treatment
Reduces the Need for Mechanical Ventilation: Invasive ventilation has been linked to high mortality rates in COVID-19 patients. CTEX CPAP could provide a non-invasive alternative.
Useful in Low-Resource Settings: The device may be especially beneficial in hospitals with limited ICU beds and ventilators.
Who Funded the Research?
This study was supported by:
Respiratory Innovation Wales Ltd, Swansea, UK
A Research Grant from Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh
Are There Any Limitations?
The authors note that the study was conducted in a single centre with a small sample size (39 patients). Larger multi-centre trials will be needed to confirm these findings.
Final Thoughts
This study suggests that CTEX CPAP could improve oxygenation in COVID-19 patients with respiratory failure while reducing viral transmission risks. The results point to a promising alternative to conventional CPAP, especially in hospitals facing equipment shortages.
For more details, check out the full study in the International Journal of Human and Health Sciences (February 2025 edition).
