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Inspire® Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

If you struggle to sleep with a CPAP machine, Inspire® Therapy may offer another option. This FDA-approved implantable therapy is designed for eligible adults with obstructive sleep apnea by helping keep the airway open while you sleep.from the specialists at Dallas Sleep.

At Dallas Sleep, our specialists evaluate whether Inspire Therapy is the right treatment for your condition and guide you through every step of the process.

What Is Inspire® Therapy?

A Different Approach to Treating Sleep Apnea

Inspire Therapy is an FDA-approved implantable neurostimulation device used to treat moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in eligible adults who are unable to tolerate or benefit from CPAP therapy.

Unlike a CPAP machine that uses air pressure to keep the airway open, Inspire works inside the body by delivering gentle stimulation to the hypoglossal nerve, which controls tongue movement. This stimulation helps prevent the tongue and soft tissues from blocking the airway during sleep.

The system is activated with a handheld remote before bedtime and automatically works while you sleep, allowing you to breathe more naturally throughout the night.

How Inspire Therapy Works

The Technology Behind Inspire

The Inspire system consists of four primary components:

Implantable Pulse Generator : A small device placed beneath the skin of the upper chest that powers the therapy.

Breathing Sensor Lead : A sensor that detects your breathing pattern while you sleep.

Stimulation Lead : A lead connected to the hypoglossal nerve that gently stimulates the muscles controlling the tongue to keep the airway open.

Handheld Remote : A simple remote allows you to turn the device on before bed and off when you wake up.

The stimulation is gentle and synchronized with your breathing, helping reduce airway collapse without the need for a mask or hose.

 

Benefits of Inspire Therapy

Many patients who qualify for Inspire Therapy experience meaningful improvements in sleep quality and daily life.

Potential Benefits

  • No CPAP mask or tubing
  • Quiet operation
  • Improved nighttime breathing
  • Reduced snoring
  • Better sleep quality
  • Increased daytime energy
  • Greater comfort for many CPAP-intolerant patients
  • Easy-to-use handheld remote
  • Personalized therapy settings
  • Long-term treatment option

 

Individual results vary, and eligibility is determined through a comprehensive sleep evaluation.

Inspire vs CPAP

FeatureInspire TherapyCPAP
Mask RequiredNoYes
Air PressureNoYes
Implant ProcedureYesNo
Nightly RemoteYesNo
Suitable for EveryoneNoNo
Requires EvaluationYesYes

Both treatments can effectively manage obstructive sleep apnea. The right option depends on your diagnosis, anatomy, and treatment goals.

Who Is a Candidate for Inspire?

Inspire Therapy May Be Right for You If You:

  • Are diagnosed with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea
  • Have difficulty tolerating CPAP therapy
  • Are 18 years of age or older
  • Meet body mass index (BMI) and medical eligibility requirements
  • Do not have complete concentric airway collapse during evaluation
  • Are considered an appropriate surgical candidate
 

Not every patient with sleep apnea qualifies for Inspire Therapy. Our specialists perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Inspire Therapy?

Inspire Therapy is an implantable neurostimulation device that treats obstructive sleep apnea by stimulating the hypoglossal nerve to help keep the airway open during sleep.

Does Inspire replace CPAP?

For eligible patients who cannot tolerate CPAP, Inspire Therapy may serve as an effective alternative. Eligibility is determined after a comprehensive evaluation.

Will I still snore?

Many patients experience reduced snoring after Inspire Therapy, although results vary.

Is the procedure permanent?

The implanted device is designed for long-term use. If medically necessary, it can be removed by a qualified surgeon.

Can I travel with Inspire?

Yes. Most patients can travel normally. Your provider will explain any considerations for airport security or medical imaging.

Is Inspire covered by insurance?

Many insurance plans, including Medicare for eligible patients, may provide coverage when medical criteria are met. Coverage varies by plan, and our team can help review your benefits.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery time varies by individual and the surgical approach. Your surgeon will provide detailed post-procedure instructions and expected timelines.

Does Inspire cure sleep apnea?

No. Inspire Therapy treats obstructive sleep apnea by helping maintain an open airway during sleep. Regular follow-up care is important to optimize treatment.

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