Inspire Sleep Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation

Inspire Sleep Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation offers an alternative for those who struggle with traditional sleep apnea treatments, providing a mask-free and hose-free solution to manage their condition and improve their quality of sleep. Read on to learn more about innovative treatment.

Overview

Inspire Sleep Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation is an innovative treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) designed for individuals who are unable to tolerate or benefit from Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy. The treatment involves the implantation of a device that delivers mild stimulation to the hypoglossal nerve during sleep, thereby keeping the airway open and preventing interruptions in breathing.

How does Inspire Sleep therapy work

The Inspire system is an implantable device designed to provide mild stimulation to the hypoglossal nerve, responsible for controlling the movements of the tongue and other crucial airway muscles. This stimulation helps keep the airway open during sleep, effectively preventing breathing interruptions characteristic of OSA.

The device consists of four main components:

Generator: Surgically implanted in the chest just below the collarbone.
Breathing Sensor Electrode: Surgically implanted on the side of the chest by the ribs.
Stimulation Electrode: Surgically implanted around the hypoglossal nerve of the tongue.
Remote Control: Used to turn the device on and off.

When you make an effort to breathe, the breathing sensor detects your breathing and sends a signal to the generator. The generator then signals the stimulation electrode to act on the nerve that causes your tongue muscles to contract. This gentle movement of the tongue forward helps keep your airway open. You can adjust the stimulation level based on how well it is working. The device is controlled using a small remote control. You can turn it on at bedtime, turn it off when you wake up, and even pause it if you wake up in the middle of the night.

Benefits of Inspire Sleep therapy

Effective treatment option: Inspire Sleep therapy has been found to be an effective treatment option for individuals with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea who are unable to use or do not find relief from traditional continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy.

Improves sleep quality: By reducing or eliminating breathing pauses and snoring episodes, Inspire Sleep therapy helps improve the overall quality of sleep, leading to increased energy levels and improved daytime functioning.

Non-invasive and discreet: Unlike CPAP therapy, which requires wearing a mask and using a machine, Inspire Sleep therapy is a discreet and non-invasive treatment option. The device is implanted under the skin and operates automatically during sleep, without the need for external equipment.

Customized and adjustable: Inspire Sleep therapy can be customized and adjusted to meet the individual's specific breathing needs. It is programmed by the healthcare provider to deliver the right level of stimulation for optimal airway opening.

Long-term solution: Inspire Sleep therapy offers a long-term solution for individuals with obstructive sleep apnea. The device is designed to last for many years and can be used continuously to provide ongoing relief from the symptoms of sleep apnea.

Clinical Efficacy

Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy of the Inspire system in treating obstructive sleep apnea. Patients experienced significant reductions in apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), which measures the number of breathing pauses and shallow breaths per hour during sleep. Additionally, improvements in daytime functioning and quality of life have been reported by patients who have undergone treatment with the Inspire system.

Is Inspire Sleep Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation Suitable for Everyone?

Not all patients with sleep apnea are candidates for the Inspire system. To determine eligibility for this treatment, patients typically need to undergo a thorough evaluation. Candidates are usually those with moderate to severe OSA who have not had success with CPAP therapy, have a certain body mass index (BMI), and possess an anatomical structure that would allow for effective stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve.

See one of our ENT sleep specialists to assess an individual’s condition and eligibility for this treatment can provide valuable insights into whether it is the right choice.