A hypoglossal nerve stimulation implant is a new treatment for sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apneais a condition that occurs in people with narrow throats.
When sleeping, the muscles in the mouth and throat relax, causing the airways to become blocked.
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This leads to poor sleep quality and can increase the risk of several health conditions.
This opens the airway, allowing the user to breathe more easily while sleeping.
The gear is controlled by a remote and is only used when the person is sleeping.
Sleep Apnea Implant vs. CPAP
Who Qualifies for Implant Surgery?
Several specific qualifications must be met for someone to qualify for hypoglossal nerve stimulator implant surgery.
Day of Outpatient Surgery
Hypoglossal nerve stimulator implant surgery is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia.
It lasts about two to three hours.
The surgery requires three separate incisions.
To place the electrode, an incision of about 4 centimeters (cm) is made under the jaw.
The electrode surrounds the hypoglossal nerve branches that control thetongue.
Then an incision below thecollarboneto insert the generator.
Use the remote to turn on the gear when going tosleep(including naps).
Aftercare
After the procedure, the incision sites may be sore and painful.
Rest for a few days and follow postoperative instructions on when you might return to work and activities.
The outpatient surgery to place the implant is approximately two hours and is often covered by insurance.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Hypoglossal nerve stimulation implant for sleep apnea.
MedlinePlus.Obstructive sleep apnea - adults.
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
Hypoglossal nerve stimulation for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.
Inspire Medical Systems.Life with Inspire.
UMMC Health Care.Postoperative instructions for Inspire hypoglossal nerve stimulator.
