Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition that impacts millions of people worldwide, placing patients at greater risk for chronic illnesses like high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and obesity. Treatments may include continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy or oral devices.

Hypoglossal nerve surgery is an option for CPAP-intolerant patients with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA. This second line approach involves implanting a small device that stimulates the tongue’s genioglossus muscle during sleep.

Hypoglossal Nerve Simulation therapy, or HGNS therapy, has been proven to be both effective and safe, leading to reductions in apnea episodes during sleep, improved daytime sleepiness and sleep-related quality of life.

However, many factors may influence a patient’s success with this therapy such as age, body mass index, oral/throat anatomy and whether an AHI score less than or equal to 50 is possible. Therefore, it is essential that you thoroughly research the evidence surrounding HGNS therapy and discuss potential outcomes with your healthcare provider prior to undergoing this surgery.

The Inspire HNS device works by sending a gentle electrical signal to the genioglossus muscle, activating it and moving tongue and soft tissue out of the airway during sleep – thus avoiding an apnea episode.

For those unable to use CPAP or who have failed other treatments, Inspire HNS is designed for you. Studies have proven that these FDA-approved devices can significantly reduce snoring episodes during sleep. You can contact Inspire Medical Systems for more details.