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Evaluation of a Miniature, Injectable, Wireless Stimulator to Treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Andrew J Fuglevand1, E Fiona Bailey1, Tarek Makansi2
1Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA.
Neuromodulation : Journal of the International Neuromodulation Society
|December 27, 2024
Summary
A new injectable wireless device shows promise for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) by stimulating the hypoglossal nerve (HGN). This minimally invasive approach could offer an alternative to current CPAP therapy for OSA patients.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neuromodulation
- Sleep Medicine
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects many in the US, leading to serious health risks like heart attack and stroke.
- Current treatments like continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) have low patient adherence.
- Existing hypoglossal nerve (HGN) stimulation requires invasive surgery for device implantation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test a miniature, injectable wireless stimulating device for HGN activation.
- To evaluate the feasibility of a less invasive alternative for OSA treatment.
Main Methods:
- Developed a 1x9 mm wireless stimulating device activated by a wearable external unit.
- Tested device efficacy in activating the rat sciatic nerve at various distances.
- Assessed device migration in rats over one month.
- Performed preliminary tests in one awake human subject.
Main Results:
- The device successfully activated the rat sciatic nerve wirelessly up to 2.5 cm and when injected within 4 mm.
- Most injected devices showed minimal migration over one month.
- Wireless HGN stimulation in a human increased inspiratory airflow by over 60%.
Conclusions:
- Initial experiments demonstrate the potential of this injectable wireless system for OSA treatment.
- Further studies are warranted to confirm its efficacy and safety in human subjects.
