First subject evaluated with simulated BION/spl trade/ treatment in genioglossus to prevent obstructive sleep apnea

Abstract

We are using percutaneous electrical stimulation to simulate BION activation of posterior genioglossus during sleep to prevent occurrences of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Patients with OSA due to tongue prolapse are recruited in this ongoing clinical study for an overnight session in a sleep laboratory. Bipolar hooked wires are inserted percutaneously into the tongue muscle, from under the chin at midline, and used for neuromuscular stimulation. Data are collected with polysomnography and analyzed to compare the efficacy of proposed treatment to conventional CPAP or the untreated state. Encouraging preliminary results from the first study participant are described.

BION microstimulators: A case study in the engineering of an electronic implantable medical device

“…In addition to those previously referenced, investigations for hemicrania [48], foot-drop [49,50], urinary incontinence [51], dysphagia [52], recurrent ischial pressure ulcers [53], and sleep apnea [54] have been initiated.…”

Potential therapeutic targets in obstructive sleep apnoea

“…However, due to the variable adherence associated with CPAP, alternative approaches for treating OSA are sometimes used such as mandibular advancements (in the form of oral appliances) [3,4] and upper airway surgery (attempting to reduce anatomical susceptibility to collapse). Experimental treatments include electrical stimulation of the hypoglossal nerves [5-7], training the upper airway muscles (e.g., through didgeridoo playing) [8] and various pharmacological approaches. However, an undisputed goal of many investigators is to provide a better understanding of the underlying physiology thereby opening targeted pharmacological approaches as a treatment strategy.…”

“…Electrical stimulation of upper airway muscles and nerves can produce contractions of the tongue and can be utilised for OSA treatment as either a training device for the muscles or for night time relief of symptoms [5-7,136-139]. These types of stimulation can induce transformations of the fibre types in the upper airway muscles that may improve the fatigability of the muscle [6].…”

An endoscopically implantable device stimulates the lower esophageal sphincter on demand by remote control: a study using a canine model

“…These devices were originally designed for treating muscular atrophy following cerebro− vascular accidents [2] and to prevent muscle dis− use in cases of severe arthritis [3]. The spectrum of indications has become much broader, how− ever, and investigators have studied their use in urinary urge incontinence [4], obstructive sleep apnea [5], chronic migraine headaches [4], and for the prevention of pressure ulcers in patients with spinal cord injury [6]. To date, these microstimulators have been sur− gically implanted or injected through large− bore needles.…”