For select patients with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea who haven’t tolerated CPAP, Inspire therapy may be an option. It’s a small implanted device that gently stimulates an airway nerve during sleep, helping keep the airway open without a mask or hose.
Inspire is an FDA-approved upper airway stimulation system designed for adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea who haven’t been able to use CPAP. A small device is implanted under the skin of the chest, with a thin lead that connects to the hypoglossal nerve, which controls the tongue. While you sleep, the device delivers gentle electrical pulses that move the tongue forward and keep the airway open. You turn the system on at night with a small handheld remote and off in the morning.
Inspire therapy may be considered if you:
Inspire isn’t for everyone. Eligibility involves both your sleep study results and an airway exam your provider performs.
Treatment with Inspire involves a few steps:
Implantation is typically done through small incisions in the chest and under the jaw.
Most patients go home the same day as the implant procedure. Mild soreness, swelling, and bruising at the incisions are common for one to two weeks. The device is usually activated about a month after implantation, and stimulation settings are fine-tuned over several visits.
Many patients report better sleep and fewer apnea events once the device is dialed in, though individual results vary based on anatomy, settings, and consistent nightly use. A follow-up sleep study is typically used to confirm how well Inspire is treating your apnea.
Inspire involves a surgical implant, so there are risks to weigh. Possible risks include:
Your ENT provider will review the specific risks with you so you can make an informed decision.
If you need help deciding whether virtual care is right for you, our team is here to assist.
If you need help deciding whether virtual care is right for you, our team is here to assist.
