Inspire Sleep Apnea Treatment
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) affects approximately 22 million Americans. It is characterized by several breathing pauses, ranging from 5 to 30 times or more per hour, throughout a single night of sleep. There are also several health issues associated with untreated OSA.
Memorial Hermann Surgical Hospital Kingwood offers a unique treatment option for obstructive sleep apnea patients unable to use or get benefit from CPAP/BiPAP called Inspire.
How Does Inspire Sleep Apnea Treatment Work
Inspire is designed to help patients who cannot tolerate CPAP /BiPAP. Approved by the FDA in 2014, Inspire therapy works inside your body with your natural breathing process to treat obstructive sleep apnea. It has been proven both safe and effective in multiple clinical studies.
This implantable upper airway stimulation device applies gentle simulation to key airway muscles during sleep, allowing patients to breathe normally. The simulator is controlled by the patient’s handheld remote control. Patients simply turn it on at night before bed and then off after awaking in the morning.
The implantation is an outpatient procedure done under general anesthesia. About four weeks after the implantation, the device will be activated, followed by a post-operative sleep study to assure proper stimulation. Patients are asked to return for a follow-up visit once a year for a simple device check.
Is this Surgical Option a Fit for You?
If you have OSA and cannot tolerate the CPAP/BiPAP regimen and are interested in a surgical option, then Inspire therapy may be an option for you. You may be eligible if:
- You have diagnosed moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea.
- You are unable to tolerate or benefit from CPAP
- You are not significantly overweight and have a BMI of 32-35 or less.
- You are 18 years of age or older.
Preparing for Your Appointment
- Bring your most recent sleep study
- Be ready to talk about your struggles using CPAP and any sleep-related topics including:
- Prescription sleep medication
- Insomnia
- Sleep anxiety
- Write down any questions you have for the doctor
- Call your health insurance carrier about Inspire sleep surgery to understand if it is covered