The Philips Recall... Cpap equipment.
(this post mainly deals with dreamstation cpap.)
Sound abatement foam was used to keep the unit running more quiet. The foam is creating two different risks. As the foam breaks down, small pieces are released into the exhaust port, through the hose, and directly into the patients respiratory system and lungs. In addition, as the foam breaks down it is releasing toxic fumes/ gases possibly creating damage to multiple organs, and creating more health issues.
The real recall was announced in June. Health risks could be severe. Philips got approval to physically start to replace units in September. World wide 3 million units are involved. Lots of patient controversy, anxiety, and uncertainty have been endured for 6 months now. The risks, the dangers, and the hopelessness of waiting while being kept in the dark not getting information... It's almost to the point of being a desperate.
Some dreamstation 1s are being replaced with new dreamstation 2s. Some are being replaced with refurbished dreamstation 1s. The vast majority of patients are still waiting. The expected completation of the recall is by September 2022. A long time to wait. Most patients after consulting their doctors were advised that the risk to stop using the equipment is greater than the risk of continued use. Basically, everyone is between a rock and a hard place.
Some dreamstation 1s are being replaced with new dreamstation 2s. Some are being replaced with refurbished dreamstation 1s. The vast majority of patients are still waiting. The expected completation of the recall is by September 2022. A long time to wait. Most patients after consulting their doctors were advised that the risk to stop using the equipment is greater than the risk of continued use. Basically, everyone is between a rock and a hard place.
The Choices
Stop using the equipment (this is not an option for the vast majority)
Continue to use knowing the possible risks... And wait.
Buy New equipment from another manufacturer. (costly)
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Amazon
And another solution... personally replace the air chamber with a foam free after market chamber... Eliminating the risk.
If you are mechanically inclined, this is not too difficult.
*Personally I was going to do this... But got a new DS2 via FedEx.
*Personally I was going to do this... But got a new DS2 via FedEx.
Feeling blessed to get my new unit, but my heart goes out to those still waiting.
Some people (recall groups on Facebook) say that no one should do this. It voids the warranty (most are already out of warranty).
Some people (recall groups on Facebook) say that no one should do this. It voids the warranty (most are already out of warranty).
Some say we can't trust the replacement air chamber probably made in China (well, the replacement may be questionable, but the original foam is definitely bad.) for that matter we are exposed to chemical in the air, water, food, and everyday items like our mattress and pillows.
Some say that's it's illegal to work on medical equipment not being a trained technician. (my equipment, my choice to work on mine).
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Replacing the air chamber yourself...
First off... Unless you are mechanically inclined and can be very meticulous you should not try to replace the air chamber. It's possible you could damage your cpap and render it inoperable. If you assume the responsibility for yourself, and want to change the air chamber yourself, there are videos on youtube showing you how to do it.
It's a bit meticulous but it can be done if you're very careful, not to damage the circuit board and its connections. At least you can continue to use your cpap (dreamstation) until a recall replacement unit is eventually supplied. Not having to breathe in dangerous contaminants for possibly 9 more months.
It's a bit meticulous but it can be done if you're very careful, not to damage the circuit board and its connections. At least you can continue to use your cpap (dreamstation) until a recall replacement unit is eventually supplied. Not having to breathe in dangerous contaminants for possibly 9 more months.
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Dreamstation 1
Dreamstation 2
Personal preferences indicate that people that have gotten the DS2 feel the design is not as good as the DS1. A video making a compassion between the two greatly favor the DS1. I have to agree. Please note that some people that put in the foam free air chamber say that there is little increase noise level.
If you get a DS2 you will probably have to set, or have your DME or doctor adjust your therapy settings. It probably won't come preset, and moving your DS1 Sd card to the DS2 probably won't set it up for you. So don't return your DS1 until your replacement unit is set for your therapy. But if you know your settings, it is possible to set them yourself. Youtube videos can show you how to access the therapy mode. Again... Wouldn't recommend if you don't know what you are doing. Once your replacement unit is set up you can send your old unit post prepaid label back to Philips. They are refurbishing them and sending them to other patients to keep the recall moving along. Some people have noted that sending back your old unit amounts to sending them your evidence if you have or develop health issues from the foam breaking down.
Hoping everyone's issues are resolved soon.
To a good nights sleep and you good health.
Never use a ion cleaning system on your unit.
It's said to break down internal parts... seals and the foam.
