Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation

To help treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), 华体会 offers hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS). Your hypoglossal nerve is a nerve in your neck that controls your tongue and muscles in the back of your throat. When you sleep, those muscles can relax, and the tongue may block your airway — causing sleep apnea.

For HNS treatment, a surgical team will insert an device under the skin on your chest. The device will stimulate key muscles in your airway to help you breathe normally and stop snoring. The procedure takes 2 to 3 hours, and you can go home the same day. After the device has been inserted, you can control it with a handheld remote. You can use the remote to turn the device on before bed and off in the morning when you wake up.

Inspire is an FDA-approved device. You may qualify for HNS treatment with an Inspire device if you:

  • Have been diagnosed with moderate to severe OSA
  • Cannot use or get consistent benefit from CPAP
  • Are not significantly overweight
  • Are over age 18

Potential health risks from HNS include:

  • Infection
  • Tongue weakness
  • Swallowing
  • Speech problems
  • Discomfort
  • Tongue abrasion
  • Insomnia/arousal

Talk with your physician about whether HNS is a treatment fit for your OSA needs.