Effect of CPAP on 6-Minute Walk Test Outcomes in Patients With ECAC

Use of a CPAP during a 6 minute walk test to maintain the airways open during the respiratory cycle

An enlarged air leak incorporated into the exhalation valve will be positioned between the mask and the CPAP tubing, allowing airflow resistance of the exhalation port to be almost eliminated by increasing its area, thereby virtually cancelling positive pressure. Also an orifice restrictor in the CPAP circuit will be connected between the CPAP unit and the tubing in order to load the blower with the same airflow resistance as in true CPAP.