Inspire®

Upper airway stimulation or hyperglossal nerve stimulation works by activating the muscle response in your tongue and upper airway. A small device (Inspire®) is implanted under the skin on your chest and neck. When you fall asleep, the machine begins to monitor your breathing and, on each breath, stimulates the throat muscles with a small electric pulse. The stimulation causes the muscles to contract and the airway to remain open.

Implanting the device is a simple same-day surgical procedure with a relatively quick recovery time. However, specific qualifications are required to be eligible for this treatment, including:

• ​Over the age of 18

• Body mass index (BMI) below 33

• Moderate to severe sleep apnea (AHI 15 to 65 events/hour)

• Unable to use a CPAP machine after trying.

Inspire Sleep doesn’t require you to wear a mask, mouth guard, or anything else. Aside from the general risks for surgery, people complain of pain or discomfort in the tongue from the constant stimulation.

Pros

• No CPAP machine or mask.

• Customizable stimulation level.

• Effective for a subset of moderate and severe OSA patients.

Cons

• Not indicated for mild OSA or those under the age of 18.

• High cost (deductibles and co-insurance).

• Invasive medical procedure with risk of complications.

• May leave small scars at incision site.

• May cause pain or discomfort of the tongue do to constant stimulation.

• Can be a lengthy process to qualify and get paid for.

How it works

When you're ready for bed, place the remote over your chest where the device has been implanted, and click the button to turn on Inspire.