Discovering Inspire: An Innovative Solution for Sleep Apnea

Discovering Inspire: An Innovative Solution for Sleep Apnea

If you struggle with CPAP or simply can’t tolerate the mask and tubing, Inspire therapy offers a proven, mask-free option for adults with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Inspire is a small, implantable device that works with your natural breathing to keep your airway open while you sleep—so you can wake up more rested and alert.

What Is Inspire Therapy?

Inspire is an FDA-approved treatment for moderate to severe OSA in adults who are unable to use or benefit from CPAP. Instead of pushing air through a mask, Inspire gently stimulates the hypoglossal nerve (the nerve that controls tongue movement) to help keep your airway open during sleep.

How Inspire Works

• A small generator is placed under the skin in the upper chest.

• A breathing sensor lead rests between the ribs to detect your natural breathing.

• A stimulation lead is attached to the hypoglossal nerve to move the tongue slightly forward.

• When you sleep, the system senses your breathing and delivers gentle, timed stimulation to prevent airway collapse.

• A handheld remote lets you turn Inspire on before bed, off in the morning, and adjust comfort settings as directed.

Benefits Patients Notice

• No mask, hoses, or headgear—sleep more comfortably.

• Quieter nights for you and your bed partner.

• Improved sleep quality and daytime alertness for many patients.

• Clinically demonstrated reductions in apnea events (on average around 60–70% in studies).

• Personalized settings and ongoing follow-up to optimize results.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

• Diagnosis of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (AHI typically 15–65).

• Unable to tolerate or benefit from CPAP despite support.

• Generally healthy weight; many candidates have BMI at or below the low-30s (Dr. Egan will review current criteria).

• Age 18 or older.

• Drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) shows no complete concentric collapse at the soft palate.

• Not primarily central sleep apnea.

• Willing to return for follow-up visits and device optimization.

Your Path With Inspire: What to Expect

1. 1

   Comprehensive evaluation: Review your sleep study, symptoms, anatomy, and CPAP history.

2. 2

   Airway assessment (DISE): A short procedure to see how your airway collapses during sleep.

3. 3

   Outpatient implantation: A few small incisions under general anesthesia; procedure typically takes 2–3 hours. Most patients go home the same day.

4. 4

   Recovery: Soreness improves over several days; most routine activities resume within 1–2 weeks as advised.

5. 5

   Activation at about 4 weeks: The device is turned on and programmed to your comfort.

6. 6

   Titration and optimization: Settings are adjusted over time; you may complete a sleep study to fine-tune therapy.

7. 7

   Ongoing follow-up: Periodic visits help maintain comfort and results.

Results and Effectiveness

Clinical studies show Inspire can significantly reduce apnea events, often by about 60–70% on average, with improvements in oxygen levels, daytime sleepiness, and quality of life for many patients. Individual results vary, and success depends on factors like anatomy, adherence, and optimized settings. Dr. Egan will discuss what these outcomes could mean for you.

Safety, Risks, and Long-Term Considerations

• Common temporary effects: Soreness at incision sites, mild tongue stiffness or tingling, and temporary swallowing or speech changes that usually improve.

• Surgical risks: Bleeding, infection, scarring, or discomfort.

• Device considerations: Rare need for repositioning or revision; battery life is typically around 10–12 years and can be replaced when needed.

• MRI and devices: Many newer Inspire systems are MRI-conditional; Dr. Egan will review your exact device compatibility and any considerations with cardiac devices.

• Lifestyle: You control the device with a small remote; most daily activities can be resumed after recovery.

Why Choose Dr. Kristin Egan

Dr. Kristin Egan is dual board-certified in Otolaryngology (ENT) and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Since 2011, she has cared for patients across Manhattan Beach, Torrance, and the South Bay. She provides comprehensive evaluation to determine if Inspire is right for you and guides your treatment from candidacy testing through activation and long-term optimization. Inspire consultations and ENT services are available in the Manhattan Beach and Torrance offices.

Is Inspire Right for You?

If CPAP hasn’t worked for you and you’re ready for a mask-free option, schedule a consultation with Dr. Egan. We’ll review your sleep study, discuss candidacy, and design a personalized plan to help you sleep—and live—better.

Common Questions

• Will I feel the stimulation? Most patients feel a gentle sensation that becomes comfortable with use.

• Will I still need CPAP? If Inspire controls your OSA well, CPAP is typically not needed; your sleep doctor will guide this.

• How soon will I see results? Many notice improvements within weeks of activation, with further gains as settings are optimized.

• Can I travel with Inspire? Yes. The handheld remote is travel-friendly, and airport screening is generally straightforward—carry your device card.

Next Steps

Take the first step toward better sleep. Contact our office to schedule your Inspire consultation. Patients from Torrance and the surrounding Beach Cities are welcome.