Work

Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation for Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Comorbid Neuromuscular Disorders

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS) is an effective surgical treatment for many patients with moderate‐to‐severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who are unable to tolerate continuous positive airway pressure. Patients with neuromuscular disorders (NMD) are particularly vulnerable to more complex sleep‐related breathing disorders due to respiratory muscle weakness and the associated risk of hypoventilation. In this study, we present five patients with myasthenia gravis ( n = 2), muscular dystrophy, Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth, and advanced multiple sclerosis who underwent HGNS therapy for OSA. At time of surgery, the mean patient age was 54 ± 18.7 years and mean BMI was 24.6 ± 4.6 kg/m 2 . Mean device adherence was 8 ± 1.1 h/night at three months and 7.2 ± 1.7 h/night at 12 months. Mean apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) improved significantly from preoperative baseline (34.9 to 8.5, p = 0.03) and 5/6 patients had a postoperative AHI <5. Epworth Sleepiness Scale scores significantly improved postoperatively (13.1–8.5, p = 0.03). Oxygen nadir trended upward (75.5–85.3, p = 0.84). Our limited findings demonstrate that HGNS was a safe and effective treatment for five patients with OSA and comorbid NMD. Prospective studies and larger sample sizes are warranted to support our findings and confirm whether HGNS is a potential therapeutic option for this unique patient population. Laryngoscope , 135:2631–2633, 2025

Source: The Laryngoscope

DOI: 10.1002/lary.32050

Authors: Alison Y. Choi, Thomas M. Kaffenberger, Ryan J. Soose, Rachel L. Whelan

Institutions: University of Pittsburgh, VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center

Language: English

Topic: Obstructive Sleep Apnea Research

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,840