OhioHealth ENT surgeons have performed more than 100 Inspire implant procedures for obstructive sleep apnea, according to a recent announcement from the health system. This milestone highlights the growing use of a nerve stimulation device that offers an alternative for people who cannot tolerate continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. The procedure involves surgically placing a small device that stimulates the hypoglossal nerve to keep the airway open during sleep.

Key takeaways

  • OhioHealth ENT surgeons have completed over 100 Inspire implant procedures for obstructive sleep apnea.
  • Inspire therapy uses a device that stimulates the hypoglossal nerve to prevent airway collapse during sleep.
  • The procedure is intended for adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea who cannot use CPAP effectively.
  • Dr. Matthew Rowe and Dr. Jeffrey Lehman, ENT specialists at OhioHealth, performed the milestone procedures.

What is Inspire therapy for sleep apnea?

Inspire is an implantable device that treats obstructive sleep apnea by delivering mild electrical stimulation to the hypoglossal nerve. This nerve controls movement of the tongue and other muscles in the upper airway. By stimulating it during sleep, the device helps keep the airway open, preventing pauses in breathing that characterize sleep apnea. The system includes a small generator placed under the skin of the chest, a sensing lead to detect breathing patterns, and a stimulation lead that connects to the hypoglossal nerve.

The therapy is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea who have tried and failed to tolerate CPAP. It is not a cure, but it can significantly reduce apnea episodes and improve quality of life for many patients. The device is activated by a remote control and can be turned on before sleep and off upon waking.

How the Inspire implant procedure works

The implant procedure is performed by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeon under general anesthesia. It typically takes one to two hours and involves two small incisions: one in the upper chest to place the generator, and one under the chin to attach the stimulation lead to the hypoglossal nerve. A third small incision may be made to place the sensing lead between chest muscles. Most patients go home the same day or after an overnight stay.

After recovery, the device is programmed by a sleep specialist during a follow-up visit. Patients then use a handheld remote to turn the device on at bedtime and off in the morning. Over time, the stimulation level can be adjusted to optimize comfort and effectiveness. Regular follow-ups with the care team are needed to monitor progress and make adjustments.

Who is a candidate for Inspire therapy?

Inspire is designed for adults aged 22 and older with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, defined as an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) between 15 and 65 events per hour. Candidates must have tried CPAP and either found it intolerable or ineffective. A sleep study and an evaluation by an ENT surgeon are required to confirm eligibility. People with certain anatomical issues, such as a complete concentric collapse of the airway during a drug-induced sleep endoscopy, may not be suitable.

Patients should also be motivated to use the device nightly and attend follow-up appointments. The therapy is not recommended for those with certain implanted medical devices, such as pacemakers, or for people who need MRI scans of the head or neck, as the implant may interfere.

Benefits of Inspire compared to CPAP

CPAP remains the standard first-line treatment for obstructive sleep apnea, but many patients struggle with the mask, noise, or pressure. Inspire offers a mask-free alternative that does not require wearing a device on the face during sleep. Once implanted and programmed, the device works automatically when turned on, and patients can sleep in any position. Some studies have shown that Inspire reduces AHI by about 70 percent on average, similar to CPAP in compliant users.

However, Inspire is an invasive procedure with surgical risks, including infection, bleeding, and nerve injury. It also requires a commitment to lifelong device management and potential replacement of the generator battery every several years. Not everyone is a candidate, and insurance coverage varies. The decision between CPAP and Inspire should be made with a sleep specialist after a thorough evaluation.

The milestone at OhioHealth

OhioHealth ENT surgeons Dr. Matthew Rowe and Dr. Jeffrey Lehman performed the health system’s 100th Inspire implant procedure, according to the original announcement. Both physicians are board-certified otolaryngologists with specialized training in sleep surgery. The milestone reflects the growing demand for alternative sleep apnea treatments in central Ohio and the expertise of the OhioHealth ENT team.

OhioHealth offers a multidisciplinary sleep program that includes sleep medicine specialists, ENT surgeons, and respiratory therapists. Patients interested in Inspire therapy typically undergo a sleep study, a consultation with a sleep physician, and an evaluation by an ENT surgeon to determine candidacy. The health system notes that the procedure is covered by many insurance plans, but patients should check with their provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Inspire sleep apnea therapy?

Inspire is an FDA-approved implantable device that treats obstructive sleep apnea by stimulating the hypoglossal nerve. This nerve controls the tongue and other airway muscles. The stimulation keeps the airway open during sleep, preventing breathing pauses. It is an alternative for people who cannot use CPAP.

How does Inspire differ from CPAP?

CPAP uses a mask and continuous air pressure to keep the airway open. Inspire uses an implanted device that electrically stimulates a nerve. Inspire requires a surgical procedure but does not involve wearing a mask. CPAP is noninvasive and typically tried first, while Inspire is reserved for those who cannot tolerate CPAP.

Who is eligible for an Inspire implant?

Eligible adults are 22 or older with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, defined as an AHI of 15 to 65. They must have tried CPAP and found it ineffective or intolerable. A sleep study and an ENT evaluation are required to rule out anatomical issues that would make the device less effective.

This is an original report by Vital Signs Today, informed by reporting from Google News. Read the original source.

This article is for information only and is not medical advice. See our Medical Disclaimer.