Carondelet St. Mary’s Hospital is the first in Tucson, Ariz., to offer a new therapy for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Inspire Therapy is an easy-to-use, mask-free solution for people with OSA who have tried and struggled with a CPAP machine.

An estimated 22 million Americans suffer from OSA, a common sleep disorder that causes breathing interruptions during sleep. Health concerns for people with sleep apnea can include increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, type 2 diabetes, fatigue, depression, and anxiety. 

“This new procedure represents a significant advancement in treating sleep apnea,” said A.J. Emami, MD, FACS, Otolaryngologist and OSA Surgeon practicing at St. Mary’s. “It is clinically proven to reduce sleep apnea events, and has a high level of patient satisfaction and continued use.”

When people with OSA sleep, their tongue relaxes into a position that blocks their airway, causing them to wake up to take a breath and preventing them from getting quality sleep. The Inspire procedure consists of two small incisions - one in the upper chest where an implant and breathing sensors are placed. The second is under the chin where the nerve that controls airway muscles, including the tongue, is located.

Gentle pulses are applied to the nerve when the therapy is turned on, keeping the airway open. The implant syncs with a patient’s natural breathing pattern while they sleep, helping them to breathe regularly and sleep better. No mask or hose is needed.

“This procedure has the ability to change lives for the better,” said Monica Vargas, Carondelet Health Network Market CEO. “Providing this technology is part of our mission to bring healing, good health and wellness to our community.”