Provent Therapy Mechanism of Action

Provent Therapy MicroValve’s Mechanism of Action

The device consists of a small valve attached externally to each nostril with hypoallergenic adhesive. The valve acts as a one-way resistor, nearly permitting unobstructed inspiration. During expiration, airflow is directed through small air channels, increasing resistance. This increased resistance during expiration creates EPAP which is maintained until the start of the next inspiration. As a result, the device helps pressurize and stabilize the upper airway during the critical end-expiratory period, when the airway has been found to be most narrow in the breaths prior to an apnea. Whereas CPAP provides positive pressure during both inspiration and expiration, EPAP only creates pressure during expiration.