The Inspire Device

Inspire is a surgically implanted device used to treat the source of obstructive sleep apnea.

How does it work?

Inspire is an implantable device that works by stimulating the nerve that controls the movement of the tongue. As the individual sleeps, the Inspire device sends a gentle pulse to the hypoglossal nerve to move the tongue forward so that it does not obstruct the individual’s airway

In order to be considered as a candidate for Inspire, the individual:

  • Must have moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea

  • Must have attempted to use a CPAP device but failed to get consistent benefit from it

  • Must have a BMI less than 35

  • Must be over the age of 18

  • Must have an adequately sized airway. This is determined through a 20 minute outpatient procedure where the individual is given medication to induce sleep while the physician examines the airway.

The Qualification Process

CPAP or Inspire?

Watch the video above to view different treatment approaches for obstructive sleep apnea.

  • Currently, a CPAP device is still considered to be the gold standard of care for people suffering from obstructive sleep apnea. Because the only qualification to receive a CPAP device is the presence of sleep disordered breathing, individuals can usually receive therapeutic treatment more quickly. Once it is determined that an individual qualifies for Inspire, the device is surgically implanted during a two hour outpatient surgery. Thirty days after the procedure, the Inspire device is activated. Once the individual has adjusted to the device, a sleep study is conducted to determine the correct level of stimulation the device must deliver.

  • A CPAP device is a machine with a mask that can be removed at will. Inspire is surgically implanted under the skin using two small incisions. One incision is made under the chin and the second incision is below the collarbone.

  • A CPAP device works by delivering a constant source of air pressure to cause the airway to remain open. Inspire works by gently stimulating the nerve that controls tongue movement.

  • A CPAP machine is comprised of the actual device that directs air pressure, a hose, and a mask. The Inspire device is implanted near the collarbone with a “wire” that runs up the neck. It is controlled with the click of a button using a device that resembles a computer mouse. Once activated, the stimulation begins after a period of time in which the individual has fallen asleep.

  • Most insurances cover a portion of the cost of CPAP machines, the implantation procedure to receive Inspire, the actual Inspire device, and the sleep study used to adjust the settings of each device.

Who would benefit from Inspire?

Individuals that could benefit from Inspire:

  • Individuals with obstructive sleep apnea that have not been able to receive benefit from a CPAP device

  • Individuals that meet all of the criteria to qualify for Inspire

  • Individuals that travel frequently and find the CPAP device cumbersome

Questions to consider

If you’re considering whether to transition from a CPAP machine to Inspire, here are some helpful questions to ask:

  • Am I eligible for Inspire? Do I meet all of the qualifying criteria? (see above)

  • Which do I value more: The convenience of an implantable device or the ability to remove the CPAP device when I want?

  • Do the benefits of Inspire outweigh my concern for having a small device implanted in my body?

  • What degree of treatment am I comfortable with? CPAP is still considered the golden standard of care for obstructive sleep apnea. The Inspire device boasts a 79% reduction in sleep apnea events while a CPAP device can be titrated to reduce sleep apnea events almost entirely. However, 94% of Inspire patients prefer it over the use of a CPAP device.

  • Do I travel regularly? Is bringing a CPAP device becoming cumbersome?

For more information on Inspire, visit the Inspire website by clicking here.