We’re pleased to offer Inspire, a new, innovative solution for sleep apnea patients who haven’t had success with CPAP.
What is Inspire?
Inspire is an implantable device, similar to a pacemaker, that monitors your patient’s breathing patterns while they sleep. It delivers mild stimulation to the nerve that controls movement of the tongue and airway muscles, keeping the airway open and preventing OSA.
The device contains three parts: a small generator, a breathing sensor lead and a stimulation lead. Patients use a small handheld remote to control the device, turning it on or off and pausing it during the night if needed. The stimulation is typically painless, and its strength can always be adjusted using the remote if needed.
How Is Inspire Used?
The Inspire device is implanted during an outpatient surgical procedure using general anesthesia. It is placed beneath the skin of the neck and chest via two small incisions. Most patients recover fully from surgery within a couple of weeks.
Why Recommend Inspire?
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to increased risk of stroke, heart attack, diabetes, memory loss, automobile accidents and other serious diseases. Unfortunately, a CPAP treatment does not work for everyone; that’s where Inspire comes in.
A recent three-year study concluded that many patients noted significant improvements in their quality of life and daytime functioning abilities. Seventy-eight percent of patients experienced a reduction in OSA, and 80 percent reported soft or no snoring.
Who is a Candidate for Inspire?
To be a candidate for Inspire, patients must have been diagnosed with moderate to severe OSA and are unable to benefit from CPAP therapy. They must have a BMI of <35 and must be over the age of 22.
To learn more about the Inspire procedure or to refer your patient, call Willamette ENT at (503) 581-1567.
“I came to be under Dr. Donovan's care during a medical emergency at the hospital. The care I received that day and in every interaction after, at Willamette ENT has been prompt, professional and very thorough. I feel very well cared for.”