Breakthrough Treatment for Sleep Apnoea Patients

Patients in the UK suffering from sleep apnoea are now experiencing a breakthrough treatment thanks to a cutting-edge, app-controlled implant that stimulates the nerves in the tongue, enhancing their ability to breathe during the night.

Understanding Sleep Apnoea

Sleep apnoea, a prevalent sleep disorder, is estimated to impact around 8 million individuals across the UK. The most prevalent type, known as obstructive sleep apnoea, occurs when the throat's walls relax, leading to temporary closures that impede airflow. Common symptoms include loud snoring, choking sounds, and frequent awakenings, all of which can severely impact daily life and overall health.

A Historic Medical Milestone

In a historic medical milestone, specialists at University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (UCLH) recently performed a groundbreaking three-hour procedure to fit the Nyxoah Genio implant on two patients. One of the recipients, 63-year-old Natalie Boller, reported significant improvements within days of the surgery. "I’m eager to be more active again, something I’ve struggled with due to my tiredness," she expressed, looking forward to having her device activated in the coming weeks.

Innovative Alternatives to CPAP Machines

UCLH is pioneering the availability of two innovative nerve-stimulating devices for sleep apnoea patients—the Genio implant and Inspire implant—providing alternatives to the traditional continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, which require users to wear uncomfortable masks that provide pressurized air during sleep.

Expert Insights on the New Technology

Consultant ENT and sleep surgeon Ryan Chin Taw Cheong shared his optimism regarding this new technology. "I'm very hopeful about the progress we’re making and aim to expand access to this implant for suitable patients," he noted. The procedure for fitting the Genio implant involves a careful 6cm incision below the chin, allowing surgeons to precisely locate the nerves responsible for tongue movement.

Convenient Design and Patient Control

The stimulation device is designed for convenience: the external control chip affixed to the chin via an adhesive patch during sleep can be removed during the day for recharging. Patients have the freedom to adjust stimulation levels and track their sleep patterns using a user-friendly smartphone app.

Eligibility for the Innovative Treatment

Candidates for this innovative treatment must meet specific criteria, including moderate to severe sleep apnoea, a body mass index (BMI) below 35, and a previous trial with CPAP machines.

Commitment to Superior Patient Care

As advancements in sleep disorder treatments like these continue to unfold, Cheong emphasized the commitment to providing patients with the best available care: "We strive to ensure that when a patient visits our clinic, they can be confident they will receive the top-notch treatment options for sleep apnoea available globally."

A Brighter Future for Sleep Apnoea Patients

With these promising developments, patients fighting sleep apnoea in the UK now have new hope for a better night's rest and an improved quality of life.