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Acclimation settings with identical or similar sensation and functional thresholds
1University of Southern California, Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, U.S.A.
The Laryngoscope
|August 3, 2016
Summary
Hypoglossal nerve stimulation does not awaken patients from sleep after acclimation. A gradual acclimation period is crucial for patients to adjust to stimulation settings, preventing arousal.
Area of Science:
- Neuromodulation
- Sleep Medicine
- Medical Devices
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder.
- Hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS) is an emerging treatment for OSA.
- Patient acclimation to HNS is not well understood.
Observation:
- A case report details a patient undergoing HNS therapy.
- The patient experienced tongue movement during sleep due to stimulation.
- No awakening occurred once the patient acclimated to the sensation.
Findings:
- Activated implanted devices for HNS do not awaken patients post-acclimation.
- A gradual acclimation period is essential for successful HNS therapy.
- Stimulation settings below the threshold of gross tongue movement aid acclimation.
Implications:
- HNS can be safely used in sleeping OSA patients.
- Acclimation protocols should be individualized.
- Further research into HNS acclimation is warranted.
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