Korean J Otorhinolaryngol-Head Neck Surg.  2015 May;58(5):299-304. 10.3342/kjorl-hns.2015.58.5.299.

An Implantable Device for Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation Therapy

• Kim SW

• KMID: 2277857
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3342/kjorl-hns.2015.58.5.299

Abstract

Among current treatment options for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) including surgeries and oral appliances, positive airway pressure (PAP) is accepted as a standard modality, particularly for moderate to severe OSA patients. Because long-term compliance for PAP is less than 50%, however, strong demands for a novel therapy have existed. Based on the findings that electromyographic activities of pharyngeal dilator muscles are significantly decreased in OSA patients during sleep, researches on hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS) have been conducted. Therapeutic effects of HGNS on OSA have been proven through a series of clinical trials, and the American Food and Drug Administration recently approved its application on moderate to severe OSA patients who failed or are intolerant to PAP treatment. Given recent advances in HGNS therapy, it would be timely to review the history of HGNS and discuss its clinical implications.

Keyword

WordsZZElectric stimulation therapy; Hypoglossal nerve; Implantable neurostimulators; Sleep apnea, obstructive; Tongue

MeSH Terms

Compliance
Humans
Hypoglossal Nerve*
Implantable Neurostimulators
Muscles
Sleep Apnea, Obstructive*
Tongue
United States Food and Drug Administration