A Novel Treatment for Nasolacrimal Air Regurgitation Into the Eye With CPAP: The Total Face Mask

We present a patient who experienced insufflation of air under the left eyelid when using continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) via an oronasal mask. The patient had a lacrimal stent in place for many years, which was a predisposing factor for this complication. Lacrimal stents are frequently used in the treatment of epiphora (excessive tearing) secondary to obstruction of the lacrimal drainage system. In this case, we review the pathophysiology of air regurgitation into the eye with CPAP use and methods previously described to address this rare complication. We also present a novel intervention for this rare complication, the total face mask. By additionally covering the eyes, a total face mask allows equalization of pressure on both sides of the lacrimal system. With a total face mask, our patient was able to successfully use CPAP.