The Inspire devices are now being advertised constantly in the US. I had the surgery after a DISE determined I was a “candidate.” In my opinion, unless you are one of the 6% with a solely tongue based obstructive sleep apnea, I would try most everything else first. If CPAP is not working work with your doctor regarding masks, pressures, BIPAP, Auto PAP. Strike out then go mandibular advancement device and see how that goes. If all fails in the end and you can get insurance to cover it then maybe try Inspire. I had my surgery at The Ohio State University. They were big on Inspire before most. The general anesthesia surgical placement was no big deal to me. I don’t mind getting knocked out and worked on. After that the surgeon is done with you until 10 years later for battery replacement. From installation forward it goes to a sleep doctor trained in activating and titrating the device. The device is activated about 30 days post surgery. It was an odd but not intolerable sensation when the doctor first had the device pulse in office. However, contrary to the surgeon’s office which was gung-ho on Inspire, my sleep doctor told me straight up that about 30% of her patients could not tolerate the device at a therapeutic level. Nice to have known that pre-surgery. As the video explains you adjust the level of stimulation. Protocol is to try upping one level per week and dial back if you are awakened by it. Well, something I did not know or adequately consider... I don’t do great on my bi-pap but way better than nothing. Now with the Inspire I was looking at weeks of basically nothing as I built up to therapeutic level. I awakened the first night to go to the bathroom and when Inspire detects you are awake it goes into a mode that does 4 quick pulses and a 1 second pause. Very disconcerting to me. So you gotta have that remote handy to pause it. I think default for pause is for it to resume in 15 minutes. That can be changed, as can the duration before it kicks in when you go to bed initially and turn it on. Both adjustments however can only be done in office. For me that is a flight to another state. These things are still not THAT common. Under 30k worldwide. The second night was really a disaster for my spirit. I was awakened by the device. This time by, and I can’t believe I am saying this, the noise. I am a light sleeper and use Bose Sleepbuds. I awoke and heard a rhythmic buzzing noise. When I lifted my head from the pillow it went away. Head back down and I heard it again. Called Inspire the next day and was told that “Yes” some people who sleep on their right side (me) have reported hearing the device pulsing when their head makes a good “seal” with the pillow. I liken it to how you cannot hear yourself breath but when you stick your fingers in your ears a you can quite clearly. Inspire’s solution to my lifetime sleeping position was to sleep on my other side. At that point sleep deprived, frustrated and a bit hopeless I quit after 3 days. Sometime when the world can take the wrath of a sleep deprived me for 2-3 months while I adjust I may try again. For now, I am grateful that I get some relief from my bi-pap (that took 2 years to adjust to) and am chalking Inspire up to a great sales pitch by my surgeon delivering only part of the story to get the thing in me and out the door. One last thing, it has been acknowledged that those suffering from insomnia, particularly sleep onset insomnia, may not be good candidates for the device. That is me too.
Now I know not to risk it, I've yet to have any type of surgery and to consider this and knowing they didn't provide all that information upfront is worrisome.
Excellent review! I've been on a CPAP for 20 years and was considering inspire for the "convenience" but see now it is not convenient. I never considered the noise. I'm very noise sensitive, I mean I can hear my blood pumping at times, so I know this thing would drive me crazy! I'll just stay on my CPAP.
@@trishrenick8937 Interesting. One reason I quit using my cpap is because I could hear the air rushing in and out of the line when I was on my side. It drove me batty.
This doctor’s video is fantastic. Extremely informative, easily understood explanations, detailing the good and bad facets of this device. Well done sir, thank you very much. Other RUclips creators should take notice of your videos.
I just learned of this device. I underwent a sleep study in Feb of 2019 and was given a CPAP machine. As a rather active sleeper, I move around a lot at night. Sometimes as often as five or six times a night I'd wake up with what felt like hurricane force winds blowing in my face and would have to reseat the mask for a tight seal. I finally just took the machine back and told them to keep it. It seemed to cause more problems than it solved. Now I think I've learned to sleep on my side rather than my back and seem to have fewer episodes of apnea. An episode of apnea woke me up recently, but those episodes seem to be rarer now. Thanks for the info, Doc. I needed it! And if I feel that apnea becomes a problem again, I know what to ask for now.
I had a sleep study 15 years ago, I will on the mid range of Apnea, I stopped smoking and my breathing got better, I stopped using my cpap but then began to snore and choke while I was asleep, I went to my sleep Dr. again and I had progressed to severe apnea, I stop breathing 50 times a minute!! My Dr. told me under no circumstances skip a night using my cpap machine again, I feel the difference. Don't be fooled by thinking that your ok now, it might be getting worse without you realizing it. Stay safe. !!
Thanks so much for this informative video. I have been a severe sleep apnea sufferer for more years than I can remember. My first lung dr prescribed a CPAP for me. I used it for two years, but kept getting sick with sinusitis, so I gave up on it. Last year my primary care physician recommended Inspire to me and a ENT specialist who is a leader in this field. I had a comprehensive evaluation and exam, had a sleep endoscopy, and was informed that I was an ideal candidate for the Inspire implant. I had my surgery in mid January and after a few days of post surgery pain I am doing well. I’m now on level 5 of my stimulator strength and am sleeping through the night. I also have mild MDS and eosinophilic asthma, both of which cause fatigue. My Inspire implant has given me more rest and energy to help me deal with these other problems. I’m so thankful for this and for all my care team for this miracle 🙏🏻
Thank you for this review - it's great in explaining the device. After using CPAP for close to 8 years with little real benefit, I just had the device installed earlier this month and am looking for great outcomes. I appreciate that it treats the root cause of the apnea, as opposed to just the symptoms.
Hey Tami, I’m so sorry to hear that you haven’t experienced much improvement with the machine. It’s been 8 years for me also using it with much less than desirable improvements and I’m anxious to hear how this Inspire device works for you. Pleasant dreams… 🌜🌟🌛
I got Inspire 6 months ago in Athens, Greece with Dr Koutsourelakis. Very happy with that choice. I could not tolerate CPAP and suffered for at least 10 years.
this is very funny. I was at dr. Koutsourelakis today after being diagnosed with sleep apnea with an AHI of 14. I will have a sleep endoscopy and check my options because I cant tolerate CPAP either.. may I ask how old you are and if you are overweight? Did you also try a mouthpiece (MAD)? Μπορεις να απαντησεις και στα ελληνικα αν θες χαχαχα..
Just got my results, which I knew. I had tried a CPAP machine a few years ago and being a stomach and side sleeper, I couldn’t sleep. From my doctor: Your study demonstrates severe obstructive sleep apnea, averaging 35.3 events per hour. I think I am going to go for this. Thank you for this video
I stopped 156 times per night , with bi pap ( which I love 13 years running ) i have less than 1.2 issues per hour . I suggest everyone get a new sleep study asap !! Your doctor will not suggest it but it recommended every 5- 6 years , because your body changes so must your cpap / bipap ! Cheers be your own advocate
Thank you so much for this extraordinary video providing the impartial, objective evaluation a prospective patient needs in order to make an informed decision on INSPIRE. You have helped me a lot!
You explain this extremely well. I have Inspire and am asked a lot about the stimulation. It is continuous stimulation to allow the airway to be open while you are sleeping but does not detect an apnea event. Rather it prevents it from happening.
Great explanation. I have just started to use the CPAP airsense 11 and with all the reviews telling that hard to get used with the machine and mask… I was scared but after seeing the result on my energy in the morning I have no issues to use the machine. The Inspire I believe still have a few years of study and come out with a system equipment similar that does not need to be invasive to the body… something similar to diabetes paths and transmission of which he senses to the tongue but from and out of the body just to the skin. Till then I will keep with my Airsense 11 And another point is the price, it’s so expensive cause of the surgery. Appreciated again your video.
I have had sleep apnea for 15 years now. CPAP worked ok but was annoying to wear. So I stopped wearing it. Went to a new ENT summer of 2021. He offered inspire surgery. Had to redo a overnight sleep study, go to a hospital and get a induced sleep study. I qualified for all. So I got my surgery a few days ago Dec 2021. Have to wait for throat to heal b4 they turn it on.
I just got diagnosed with sleep apnea and i found out i stop breathing 97 times per hour. Yes 97. But this Apap machine doesn't work to well for me. The auto adjustment gets too strong and wakes me up. Great to know that this inspire might be a possible solution for me.
Thank you so much for a wonderful unbiased report. I was diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnoea in 2003 after a lifetime of suffering but not knowing what was wrong. If I remember correctly, I was having between 600 and 700 apnoeas a night, so basically never getting beyond the first sleep stage. I have a BMI of 24.7 currently but have at some points been under 20. I was told I was born with it and the problem I have is that my all upper airway tubes bar one are to narrow. The only normal tube I believe is in my left ear. I have had some surgery to remove excess bone behind the nasal cavity to allow a better passage and a correction for a deviated Septum. I have also had the terbinates drilled. I have varying success with CPAP, mainly good but not always. If I get a slight cold or other issues with hay fever etc CPAP therapy is not effective. Mask leaks are a big problem for me and I have to have a really tight fit of the mask which has resulted in broken teeth and almost constant strap marks. Might I be a candidate for this type of surgery. I am almost 67 years old.
And CPAP acne. I am also a sixty something and the CPAP marks don’t fade because of old skin, plus the irritation caused by the silicone causes contact acne. I look like a weird teenager.
Thank you very much for this video! I'm about to do my second sleep study. I already got diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea but my issue isn't with my tongue but with my lateral wall. I had surgery to try and correct this which was successful enough but after a few years it seems to have failed. I have EDS so it's not unusual. This video was very helpful in letting me know that I don't qualify for this device.
Dr. Nic if it wasn’t for you making this video, I would be starving for air every night if it wasn’t for you making this video. A very big Than you! I had the Inspire app put in and I love it. I recommend it to anyone who can’t use their sleep apnea machine. The only drawback to the device is you can not have a MRI of your body once it is implanted. What would you recommend I use to get a image of my L5-S1 lower spinal disk in place of the MRI? Again, I really appreciate you making this video, probably saving my life and possibly countless others. You are amazing.
Joyce, I read that the newest version of Inspire allows MRI's if the doctor follows certain instructions. I'm thinking of getting one because my breathing machine doesn't work and I hate it.
@@KM-nj3cm I am hoping to get a spinal stimulator too. Just waiting on Insurace to authorize it. I have peripheral neuropathy, my spinal surgery didn’t fix it. I will be glad to I get it because it will be the last surgery. I am going to be the bionic woman.
@@PenelopeRose238 They didn’t give me a choice. 😞 I wished I knew then what I know now. You did a great job getting the research. How did you find out?
Rod in right leg putting ankle back together, Interstem inserted for incontinence, and now inspire for sleep apnea. During sleep study I stopped breathing 56 times in one hour. I am almost an AI.
Hi everyone. I just had the Inspire device implanted three days ago. I’m more than willing to provide my unbiased opinion. So far, normal bruising and swelling in check and below my chin area. Nothing unusual as of now.
Great video! My insurance just approved the implant. Currently get very little sleep at night. I’m allergic to the mask, so can’t use a CPAP. To me this looks just like my pacemaker! This is something that I’m actually looking forward to getting done. Just hope it works well for me. Hopefully I’ll be able to get this done within the next 2 months here in Wyoming.
Going for my Endoscopy Friday, my ENT Dr. Seems to believe I am good for the Inspire but he has to be sure, I am at 45 times an hour with CPAP so I have no choice but to use it. Cant wait for Friday afternoon.
Hi there. I just learned about the Inspire device last night and I'm very intrigued by this option. You mention that it's not an option for those who might have lateral wall-related sleep apnea. While I know I have obstructive sleep apnea, I don't know if it's tongue/soft tissue or lateral wall related. Would the Otolaryngologist do some sort of testing/imaging to tell which kind a patient has, before moving forward with something like the Inspire device? Thanks in advance for your time.
I had an Inspire implant 3 months ago. When the device was first explained to me, I understood that it would monitor my breath and only stimulate my tongue while inhaling. For me (experienced only when awake), the device runs on a continuous cycle of 4 seconds on and 1 second off, regardless of my breathing pattern. When I mentioned this during two follow-up appointments with a clinician and an Inspire representative, the latter dismissed my concerns, saying my breathing patterns are different when awake versus when asleep. That may be true, but that wouldn't explain why the device is not aligning its stimulus to my breathing. Am I under the wrong assumption as to how the device functions? I cannot find any specific information from Inspire's literature. Thanks for all your videos, they are wonderful and extremely helpful.
I feel your pain! My device also is not calibrated to my breathing pattern which sounds most logical I don’t believe this device is NEARLY as successful as it is portrayed
Thank you so much. The first review by a doctor that isn't company literature or too technical to understand. I'm just wondering if the device 'sticks out' and can be seen beneath the skin.
I've had an Inspire Device for five years. It is just below the skin but is not visible. I imagine if someone is real skinny - it may be noticeable. (I'm 5' 10" and weigh 180 pounds.)
I started on the inspired device about five months ago. As I turn up the levels of intensity, I consistently find that it wakes me up every time it starts. Unfortunately, the level I need to get to is higher than I can tolerate. I honestly find it hard to believe the claim that 96% of patients are satisfied, I don’t know that I am overly sensitive, this device simply contorts your tongue to a point where I don’t see how anyone could sleep through it. Imagine someone grabbing your tongue and pulling it out of your mouth every couple seconds all night long, that best describes this device. I was extremely hopeful, before I got the device, after all the money and a month-long recovery from surgery, needless to say I am very disappointed. Back to the CPAP.
Glad I found this video! I have been tested 2x for sleep apnea & the doctor was scared for me for the amounts of times I stopped breathing. If my memory is correct it was 70 some times the whole night of sleeping (which I think was only 5hrs). I don’t have that paperwork anymore. I am just learning about this new device. I am convent mine is tongue related because it’s woke me up that way. I tried to use a cpap but I’d wake up with hose wrapped my by head because I roll so much at night, or I would wake up & the mask was off, so I must taken it off in my sleep? My husband is hard of hearing & takes his hearing aids out at night & I wake him up from the snoring being loud & had even shook me because I stopped breathing. It’s that bad & loud. I’ll be asking my doctor to direct me to the surgeon to do this for me. Yes we all want to pass in our sleep, I don’t want sleep to be the thing that ends me.
The short answer is 'no', the majority of people won't see a noticeable lump on their chest. The long answer is 'maybe', because it depends on the amount of fat and muscle you have over your chest. If you have very little fat in your body, or are very slight, then you will be able to perceive the implant afterwards.
I was sleep apnea tested laying my back even though I told them I can't sleep on my back. Even wearing the CPAP device I cannot sleep on my back. I need to roll on to my side or even better, my stomach. So I'm not sure my tongue is retracting as you explained. I even snore when I sleep on my side or stomach so I don't know what that means(other than a BMI of 45ish). I have another consultation in February so I'm better informed about this and I'll ask more relevant questions. Any suggestion would be appreciated. Thank You
There is a worry of cross talk between the devices, and I figure the implant will need to be on the other side. It is done, but needs some thought beforehand.
Hi Dr. Veer, first thanks for this channel and ALL you work on this subject this has been hugely helpful. Regarding the inspire device, I am considering applying for this, but I have a concern. I play ice hockey. It's not full contact like the pro's, but there are instances of incidental contact. I would have protective padding over the device when I play, but I would be curious to hear you take on the possible risk for people with an active lifestyle who may need a device like this. Thank you for you time and take care.
I love my CPAP, or actually it's a APAP. I strap that sucker on, and almost instantly fall asleep. Love the built-in humidifier, too. I don't think I would get surgery to insert these wires unless I was a really severe case and CPAP/APAP wasn't working out. There are other surgical procedures that can get rid of your obstructive apnea altogether, so not sure why you would go this route. Can you help me understand who this is best suited for?
My doctor told me that it works for moderate to very severe cases where the person doesn't tolerate the machine well. That fits my description pretty well so I will be doing more research into it. I have pretty severe sleep apnea.
Good even vik Ive been diagnosed with sleep apnea and been given a cpap device but finding its making me feel any better in the day time. I have 2 questions i hope you can answer for me 1- my apneas are happening in the day when im awake 2- would the implant help my sleep apnea. On my sleep study my apneas was 36
My first concern -- will the foreign object placed inside the body cause adverse immune response, leach toxic materials into circulation, or expose the wearer to pathogenic electromagnetic fields.
Dr Veer, I had the Inspire installed in September 2020. It was not successful for me I have a bigger problem in that I have Palatal Prolapse. Not sure why in asleep study that can’t be identified. Nor why there is not more effort put into the whole sleep breathing process. I have a problem getting my AHI down because of the Prolapse. Any feeling about this subject?
Dr. Excellent video!! How do they determine the cause of your apnea during a sleep study? I have had many and am wondering if it's a special sleep study? I can't think of a way they could determine otherwise from my experiences.
Just heard about this device and wonder if it would work for those, as myself, that use biPAP. I would really love to get off the machine but not with my numbers being high.
Because the Inspire is fairly new, I’m wondering if anyone has had to get the device removed for non-medical reasons, and was the removal covered by their insurance? Additionally, when the battery needs to be replaced, do insurance companies cover that?
Very informative video. I’m in the process of meeting with an ENT specialist to get things started. I am wondering how long the timetable is after having a sleep study done, meeting with the ENT specialist to discuss having the implant and actually having the implant done. Thank you for answering so many of my questions regarding the Inspire.
Vik, Do you think that device would work is my problem comes from my epiglottis ? I noticed when I’m laying on my back just resting not asleep sticking my tongue out helps and clear my airways. Thanks a lot
Is there a remote app you can download to your phone? I’m always losing things. Also, I’d like to see a picture of a real person w it installed so I’ll know it how much it sticks out of your chest. My mother had a pacemaker that looked like a hen’s egg sticking out of her chest.
Right now I’m using the Phillips Respiromics & I’m wondering if the inspire will benefit me better! Especially now that they have issued a recall on most of these devices! I’m just nervous about having the surgery!
I did have a sleep test done back about 7 maybe even longer ago. I was put on a CPAP; I used it pretty faithful. Than EX-friend a hold of it and burned it up. I am wondering what I need to do now.
Hello Dr. I snore when I sleep on my stomach and even when I’m sitting in the car. My question is, how to know if inspire fit me? How do I know it’s my tongue not my throat collapsing as you explained? I worried about getting it and then won’t fit me.
Hi Dr. Veer, I live in San Diego, California (USA). I was diagnosed with apnea in a sleep study. My doctor just prescribed a CPAP which did not work for me. I could not get the adjustments right in able to sleep. He did not check if it is my tongue, tonsils or other causing my apnea. What tests would you recommend I ask a ENT specialist to perform for a better diagnosis? Your videos are extremely helpful. Thank you. Kind regards, David Silva
Dr Veer, would this work for those of us with UARS please? My CPAP isn’t treating me 100% and I am getting bad clenching, bruxism and some choking even on CPAP, my throat is so narrow! Thanks
I have been using a CPap device for over 10 years. I am uncomfortable sleeping without it, in fact I think I am kind of addicted to it. If I want to sleep during the day, I can't fall asleep if I don't wear it. I hate to admit it, but I find it comforting to wear the damn thing. Am I a poor candidate for one of these devices, such as the Inspire. Greatly informative video. Thank you
The Inspire devices are now being advertised constantly in the US. I had the surgery after a DISE determined I was a “candidate.” In my opinion, unless you are one of the 6% with a solely tongue based obstructive sleep apnea, I would try most everything else first. If CPAP is not working work with your doctor regarding masks, pressures, BIPAP, Auto PAP. Strike out then go mandibular advancement device and see how that goes. If all fails in the end and you can get insurance to cover it then maybe try Inspire.
I had my surgery at The Ohio State University. They were big on Inspire before most. The general anesthesia surgical placement was no big deal to me. I don’t mind getting knocked out and worked on.
After that the surgeon is done with you until 10 years later for battery replacement. From installation forward it goes to a sleep doctor trained in activating and titrating the device. The device is activated about 30 days post surgery. It was an odd but not intolerable sensation when the doctor first had the device pulse in office.
However, contrary to the surgeon’s office which was gung-ho on Inspire, my sleep doctor told me straight up that about 30% of her patients could not tolerate the device at a therapeutic level. Nice to have known that pre-surgery.
As the video explains you adjust the level of stimulation. Protocol is to try upping one level per week and dial back if you are awakened by it.
Well, something I did not know or adequately consider... I don’t do great on my bi-pap but way better than nothing. Now with the Inspire I was looking at weeks of basically nothing as I built up to therapeutic level.
I awakened the first night to go to the bathroom and when Inspire detects you are awake it goes into a mode that does 4 quick pulses and a 1 second pause. Very disconcerting to me. So you gotta have that remote handy to pause it. I think default for pause is for it to resume in 15 minutes. That can be changed, as can the duration before it kicks in when you go to bed initially and turn it on. Both adjustments however can only be done in office. For me that is a flight to another state. These things are still not THAT common. Under 30k worldwide.
The second night was really a disaster for my spirit. I was awakened by the device. This time by, and I can’t believe I am saying this, the noise. I am a light sleeper and use Bose Sleepbuds. I awoke and heard a rhythmic buzzing noise. When I lifted my head from the pillow it went away. Head back down and I heard it again.
Called Inspire the next day and was told that “Yes” some people who sleep on their right side (me) have reported hearing the device pulsing when their head makes a good “seal” with the pillow. I liken it to how you cannot hear yourself breath but when you stick your fingers in your ears a you can quite clearly. Inspire’s solution to my lifetime sleeping position was to sleep on my other side.
At that point sleep deprived, frustrated and a bit hopeless I quit after 3 days. Sometime when the world can take the wrath of a sleep deprived me for 2-3 months while I adjust I may try again. For now, I am grateful that I get some relief from my bi-pap (that took 2 years to adjust to) and am chalking Inspire up to a great sales pitch by my surgeon delivering only part of the story to get the thing in me and out the door.
One last thing, it has been acknowledged that those suffering from insomnia, particularly sleep onset insomnia, may not be good candidates for the device. That is me too.
Now I know not to risk it, I've yet to have any type of surgery and to consider this and knowing they didn't provide all that information upfront is worrisome.
Awesome review! Thanks for the heads up and God Bless You!
Thank so much for you honesty i was considering this instead of my cpap, i think ill just lose some weight instead...
Excellent review! I've been on a CPAP for 20 years and was considering inspire for the "convenience" but see now it is not convenient. I never considered the noise. I'm very noise sensitive, I mean I can hear my blood pumping at times, so I know this thing would drive me crazy! I'll just stay on my CPAP.
@@trishrenick8937 Interesting. One reason I quit using my cpap is because I could hear the air rushing in and out of the line when I was on my side. It drove me batty.
This doctor’s video is fantastic. Extremely informative, easily understood explanations, detailing the good and bad facets of this device. Well done sir, thank you very much. Other RUclips creators should take notice of your videos.
Excellent video, full marks. Natural orator who is so easy to listen to and understand.
This is a thorough, clear and articulate video which is a strong contribution to patient education for those suffering from obstructive sleep apnea.
I just learned of this device. I underwent a sleep study in Feb of 2019 and was given a CPAP machine. As a rather active sleeper, I move around a lot at night. Sometimes as often as five or six times a night I'd wake up with what felt like hurricane force winds blowing in my face and would have to reseat the mask for a tight seal. I finally just took the machine back and told them to keep it. It seemed to cause more problems than it solved. Now I think I've learned to sleep on my side rather than my back and seem to have fewer episodes of apnea. An episode of apnea woke me up recently, but those episodes seem to be rarer now.
Thanks for the info, Doc. I needed it! And if I feel that apnea becomes a problem again, I know what to ask for now.
I had a sleep study 15 years ago, I will on the mid range of Apnea, I stopped smoking and my breathing got better, I stopped using my cpap but then began to snore and choke while I was asleep, I went to my sleep Dr. again and I had progressed to severe apnea, I stop breathing 50 times a minute!! My Dr. told me under no circumstances skip a night using my cpap machine again, I feel the difference. Don't be fooled by thinking that your ok now, it might be getting worse without you realizing it. Stay safe.
!!
Thanks so much for this informative video. I have been a severe sleep apnea sufferer for more years than I can remember. My first lung dr prescribed a CPAP for me. I used it for two years, but kept getting sick with sinusitis, so I gave up on it. Last year my primary care physician recommended Inspire to me and a ENT specialist who is a leader in this field. I had a comprehensive evaluation and exam, had a sleep endoscopy, and was informed that I was an ideal candidate for the Inspire implant. I had my surgery in mid January and after a few days of post surgery pain I am doing well. I’m now on level 5 of my stimulator strength and am sleeping through the night. I also have mild MDS and eosinophilic asthma, both of which cause fatigue. My Inspire implant has given me more rest and energy to help me deal with these other problems. I’m so thankful for this and for all my care team for this miracle 🙏🏻
Start drinking oregano tea
Lung doctor? What type of sleep apnea do you have?
I regularly see a lung doctor (pulmonologist) for Severe Eosinophilic Asthma. I also happen to have obstructive sleep apnea.
Thank you for this review - it's great in explaining the device. After using CPAP for close to 8 years with little real benefit, I just had the device installed earlier this month and am looking for great outcomes. I appreciate that it treats the root cause of the apnea, as opposed to just the symptoms.
Hey Tami, I’m so sorry to hear that you haven’t experienced much improvement with the machine. It’s been 8 years for me also using it with much less than desirable improvements and I’m anxious to hear how this Inspire device works for you. Pleasant dreams… 🌜🌟🌛
Any updates Tami? I'm thinking of getting it.
Hey Tami! I do not like the CPAP machine at all and everyone complains about me snoring but that thang is so uncomfortable please give an update🌻❤️
If she got the implant already “earlier this month” she should already have results after the first night. She does not have the device and is lying.
Normally the implant is implanted but not turned on until everything has healed up. it can take well over a month before the doctors turn it on.
I got Inspire 6 months ago in Athens, Greece with Dr Koutsourelakis. Very happy with that choice. I could not tolerate CPAP and suffered for at least 10 years.
How do you sleep now??
this is very funny. I was at dr. Koutsourelakis today after being diagnosed with sleep apnea with an AHI of 14. I will have a sleep endoscopy and check my options because I cant tolerate CPAP either.. may I ask how old you are and if you are overweight? Did you also try a mouthpiece (MAD)? Μπορεις να απαντησεις και στα ελληνικα αν θες χαχαχα..
Think it about getting it what do you think it helps you my doctor spoke to me today
Just got my results, which I knew. I had tried a CPAP machine a few years ago and being a stomach and side sleeper, I couldn’t sleep. From my doctor: Your study demonstrates severe obstructive sleep apnea, averaging 35.3 events per hour. I think I am going to go for this. Thank you for this video
Paid
Last test I had if my memory is right I was high 70’s in the night I tested.. scary
Best thing I ever did. I feel amazing after going to this vs cpap. Highly recommended.
@@richardraasch8218 how was the recovery?
I stopped 156 times per night , with bi pap ( which I love 13 years running ) i have less than 1.2 issues per hour . I suggest everyone get a new sleep study asap !! Your doctor will not suggest it but it recommended every 5- 6 years , because your body changes so must your cpap / bipap !
Cheers be your own advocate
Thank you so much for this extraordinary video providing the impartial, objective evaluation a prospective patient needs in order to make an informed decision on INSPIRE. You have helped me a lot!
Hey Doc I am finally getting my inspire surgery tomorrow. I pray everything goes safely.
How is it working
Yeah hows it working
So curious how it’s working for you and I hope the procedure went well. 🙏🏼
One more…how’s it working?
Joyce please respond god darnit
You explain this extremely well. I have Inspire and am asked a lot about the stimulation. It is continuous stimulation to allow the airway to be open while you are sleeping but does not detect an apnea event. Rather it prevents it from happening.
Truth speak
Best explanation of the actual surgery, how the Inspire device works and possible complications. Thank you from across the pond!
This cleared things up. I will get with my doctor about this.
Thank-you for this important inservice. Next step for me is the sleep endoscopy in a few days. I hope I'm a candidate.
Great explanation.
I have just started to use the CPAP airsense 11 and with all the reviews telling that hard to get used with the machine and mask… I was scared but after seeing the result on my energy in the morning I have no issues to use the machine.
The Inspire I believe still have a few years of study and come out with a system equipment similar that does not need to be invasive to the body… something similar to diabetes paths and transmission of which he senses to the tongue but from and out of the body just to the skin.
Till then I will keep with my Airsense 11
And another point is the price, it’s so expensive cause of the surgery.
Appreciated again your video.
I have had sleep apnea for 15 years now. CPAP worked ok but was annoying to wear. So I stopped wearing it. Went to a new ENT summer of 2021. He offered inspire surgery. Had to redo a overnight sleep study, go to a hospital and get a induced sleep study. I qualified for all. So I got my surgery a few days ago Dec 2021. Have to wait for throat to heal b4 they turn it on.
Can you explain how it’s working out for you
Any update??
And how’s it working out?
+1
I just got diagnosed with sleep apnea and i found out i stop breathing 97 times per hour. Yes 97. But this Apap machine doesn't work to well for me. The auto adjustment gets too strong and wakes me up. Great to know that this inspire might be a possible solution for me.
mine was over 100 😱
EXCELLENT INFORMATIVE professional comprehensive compassionate video- so impressed!
Glad it helped!
Thank you very much for providing evidence-based information.
Thank you so much for a wonderful unbiased report. I was diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnoea in 2003 after a lifetime of suffering but not knowing what was wrong. If I remember correctly, I was having between 600 and 700 apnoeas a night, so basically never getting beyond the first sleep stage. I have a BMI of 24.7 currently but have at some points been under 20. I was told I was born with it and the problem I have is that my all upper airway tubes bar one are to narrow. The only normal tube I believe is in my left ear. I have had some surgery to remove excess bone behind the nasal cavity to allow a better passage and a correction for a deviated Septum. I have also had the terbinates drilled. I have varying success with CPAP, mainly good but not always. If I get a slight cold or other issues with hay fever etc CPAP therapy is not effective. Mask leaks are a big problem for me and I have to have a really tight fit of the mask which has resulted in broken teeth and almost constant strap marks. Might I be a candidate for this type of surgery. I am almost 67 years old.
😊
HI
GET RID OF IT!!!!!
And CPAP acne. I am also a sixty something and the CPAP marks don’t fade because of old skin, plus the irritation caused by the silicone causes contact acne.
I look like a weird teenager.
This tool could save Lives!!! This could change so many things! Maybe it could even save people from overdosing on medication
Recovering from the surgery as I watch
How has the Inspire been? I am supposed to do a sleep endo next week to see if I can do it.
Excellent review of sleep apnea and Inspire
My goodness, what a great job of explaining sleep aphnea and the Inspire device. You are a great communicator. Thank you!!!
Very good to see that this seems to be available in Europe as well...I really hope that they have it in Germany so my mom could get it :)
Thank you very much for this video! I'm about to do my second sleep study. I already got diagnosed with severe obstructive sleep apnea but my issue isn't with my tongue but with my lateral wall. I had surgery to try and correct this which was successful enough but after a few years it seems to have failed. I have EDS so it's not unusual. This video was very helpful in letting me know that I don't qualify for this device.
I’d take this over cpap, I constantly wake with cpap too, from having to adjust the mask, to dry mouth, to having aerophagia
Well done. As a candidate for the device, I would like to learn more about physical activity, regarding Inspire implant. Thank you!
An EXCELLENT video... Thank you Doctor.
Dr. Nic if it wasn’t for you making this video, I would be starving for air every night if it wasn’t for you making this video. A very big Than you! I had the Inspire app put in and I love it. I recommend it to anyone who can’t use their sleep apnea machine. The only drawback to the device is you can not have a MRI of your body once it is implanted. What would you recommend I use to get a image of my L5-S1 lower spinal disk in place of the MRI? Again, I really appreciate you making this video, probably saving my life and possibly countless others. You are amazing.
Joyce, I read that the newest version of Inspire allows MRI's if the doctor follows certain instructions. I'm thinking of getting one because my breathing machine doesn't work and I hate it.
I had a spinal cord stimulator in my lumbar a few years back. Because of it, I could only have a CT scan done when needed. I hope this helps.
A Myelogram and a CT of the lumbar spine could help a lot to diagnose your problem.
@@KM-nj3cm I am hoping to get a spinal stimulator too. Just waiting on Insurace to authorize it. I have peripheral neuropathy, my spinal surgery didn’t fix it. I will be glad to I get it because it will be the last surgery. I am going to be the bionic woman.
@@PenelopeRose238 They didn’t give me a choice. 😞 I wished I knew then what I know now. You did a great job getting the research. How did you find out?
THank you for posting both the pros and cons of this device!!!
Rod in right leg putting ankle back together, Interstem inserted for incontinence, and now inspire for sleep apnea. During sleep study I stopped breathing 56 times in one hour. I am almost an AI.
Hi everyone. I just had the Inspire device implanted three days ago. I’m more than willing to provide my unbiased opinion. So far, normal bruising and swelling in check and below my chin area. Nothing unusual as of now.
Thanks for sharing
How is it
It’s been a year how is it?
Here I am watching this with my new device installed 2 days ago 😮. Can't wait to see the results!
How did it go?
How has the Inspire been? I am supposed to do a sleep endo next week to see if I can do it.
@@PauloSilva-gb7dm como te fue con tu dispositivo mi novio ase 3 dia q se lo pusieron
Great video! My insurance just approved the implant. Currently get very little sleep at night. I’m allergic to the mask, so can’t use a CPAP. To me this looks just like my pacemaker! This is something that I’m actually looking forward to getting done. Just hope it works well for me. Hopefully I’ll be able to get this done within the next 2 months here in Wyoming.
Going for my Endoscopy Friday, my ENT Dr. Seems to believe I am good for the Inspire but he has to be sure, I am at 45 times an hour with CPAP so I have no choice but to use it. Cant wait for Friday afternoon.
Very insightful. Thank you, DR Veer.
Thank you so much for such a clear explanation.
How do you know what is cause your sleep apnea? How do you find out if you have a tongue obstruction or a lateral wall issue?
Thank you for the wonderful video , question on gym activity with the implant ?
I'm not aware of any contraindications, it should be fine.
Hi there. I just learned about the Inspire device last night and I'm very intrigued by this option. You mention that it's not an option for those who might have lateral wall-related sleep apnea. While I know I have obstructive sleep apnea, I don't know if it's tongue/soft tissue or lateral wall related. Would the Otolaryngologist do some sort of testing/imaging to tell which kind a patient has, before moving forward with something like the Inspire device? Thanks in advance for your time.
have a look at these two videos that will explain it for you.
ruclips.net/video/Ar0JgPwqZ8M/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/-zx3xAY55jk/видео.html
I had an Inspire implant 3 months ago. When the device was first explained to me, I understood that it would monitor my breath and only stimulate my tongue while inhaling. For me (experienced only when awake), the device runs on a continuous cycle of 4 seconds on and 1 second off, regardless of my breathing pattern. When I mentioned this during two follow-up appointments with a clinician and an Inspire representative, the latter dismissed my concerns, saying my breathing patterns are different when awake versus when asleep. That may be true, but that wouldn't explain why the device is not aligning its stimulus to my breathing. Am I under the wrong assumption as to how the device functions? I cannot find any specific information from Inspire's literature. Thanks for all your videos, they are wonderful and extremely helpful.
I feel your pain! My device also is not calibrated to my breathing pattern which sounds most logical
I don’t believe this device is NEARLY as successful as it is portrayed
Did you try changing the settings
@@craigbucl7752 did you try changing the setting
Is it working for you now
@@craigbucl7752is the device working now for you?
Thank you so much. The first review by a doctor that isn't company literature or too technical to understand. I'm just wondering if the device 'sticks out' and can be seen beneath the skin.
I've had an Inspire Device for five years. It is just below the skin but is not visible. I imagine if someone is real skinny - it may be noticeable. (I'm 5' 10" and weigh 180 pounds.)
It is not visible as it is implanted into a pocket created in the muscle.
Thank you for the video, very informative. Great job doc.
Thank you!
I get my inspire device Tuesday Nov 5th thanks for the insite on this device
Hello, Great video! Can you please post the links to the studies you referenced? Thanks
Great explanation , Thinking of getting one of these devices
Thank you for doing this video. It was really helpful in understanding this apnea option.
Wonderful explanation and literature review.
I started on the inspired device about five months ago. As I turn up the levels of intensity, I consistently find that it wakes me up every time it starts. Unfortunately, the level I need to get to is higher than I can tolerate. I honestly find it hard to believe the claim that 96% of patients are satisfied, I don’t know that I am overly sensitive, this device simply contorts your tongue to a point where I don’t see how anyone could sleep through it. Imagine someone grabbing your tongue and pulling it out of your mouth every couple seconds all night long, that best describes this device. I was extremely hopeful, before I got the device, after all the money and a month-long recovery from surgery, needless to say I am very disappointed. Back to the CPAP.
Thank you!
No problem.
Thanks
Welcome
Glad I found this video! I have been tested 2x for sleep apnea & the doctor was scared for me for the amounts of times I stopped breathing. If my memory is correct it was 70 some times the whole night of sleeping (which I think was only 5hrs). I don’t have that paperwork anymore. I am just learning about this new device. I am convent mine is tongue related because it’s woke me up that way. I tried to use a cpap but I’d wake up with hose wrapped my by head because I roll so much at night, or I would wake up & the mask was off, so I must taken it off in my sleep? My husband is hard of hearing & takes his hearing aids out at night & I wake him up from the snoring being loud & had even shook me because I stopped breathing. It’s that bad & loud. I’ll be asking my doctor to direct me to the surgeon to do this for me. Yes we all want to pass in our sleep, I don’t want sleep to be the thing that ends me.
Good afternoon, wanted to ask if there's visible bump in the skin (chest area) that's visible when the device is installed? Thank you
The short answer is 'no', the majority of people won't see a noticeable lump on their chest. The long answer is 'maybe', because it depends on the amount of fat and muscle you have over your chest. If you have very little fat in your body, or are very slight, then you will be able to perceive the implant afterwards.
@@VikVeerENTSurgeon a lot more fun for the first 🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇🥇
@@VikVeerENTSurgeon Thanks. I was wondering about this.
Thank you for sharing.👍
Thank you too
Thanks for posting !
You're welcome
How do you determine whether you have a back wall or tongue problem?
I have severe sleep apnea. More than 100 stops per hour. I can not fall asleep with cpap. But this device seems a bit invasive. Big operation. 😮😮
I was sleep apnea tested laying my back even though I told them I can't sleep on my back. Even wearing the CPAP device I cannot sleep on my back. I need to roll on to my side or even better, my stomach. So I'm not sure my tongue is retracting as you explained. I even snore when I sleep on my side or stomach so I don't know what that means(other than a BMI of 45ish).
I have another consultation in February so I'm better informed about this and I'll ask more relevant questions.
Any suggestion would be appreciated.
Thank You
Great presentation of the device. Tha k you, Doctor.
Enjoyed the video. I have a pacemaker on the right upper chest. Any issues having Inspire
Implant on the same area. Thanks for your time
There is a worry of cross talk between the devices, and I figure the implant will need to be on the other side. It is done, but needs some thought beforehand.
I have a pacemaker also, my ENT told my no interference with the pacemaker. That was backed with my electro cardiologist with my pacemaker.
Thanks.. I am looking forward to it!
Good Luck!
Hi Dr. Veer, first thanks for this channel and ALL you work on this subject this has been hugely helpful. Regarding the inspire device, I am considering applying for this, but I have a concern. I play ice hockey. It's not full contact like the pro's, but there are instances of incidental contact. I would have protective padding over the device when I play, but I would be curious to hear you take on the possible risk for people with an active lifestyle who may need a device like this. Thank you for you time and take care.
I love my CPAP, or actually it's a APAP. I strap that sucker on, and almost instantly fall asleep. Love the built-in humidifier, too. I don't think I would get surgery to insert these wires unless I was a really severe case and CPAP/APAP wasn't working out. There are other surgical procedures that can get rid of your obstructive apnea altogether, so not sure why you would go this route. Can you help me understand who this is best suited for?
My doctor told me that it works for moderate to very severe cases where the person doesn't tolerate the machine well. That fits my description pretty well so I will be doing more research into it. I have pretty severe sleep apnea.
My dad's CPAP machine gave him a fungal infection in his lungs...
@@hopebullard460 k
Does insurance company's cover this procedure?
not in the UK, sorry.
@@VikVeerENTSurgeon thanks for replying. So probably not in the US either.👎
I have the feeling that in the USA they might cover it. it would be best to ask them?
I got diagnosed in 2016 and use cpap, i never knew any surgery or other devices were available
What type of examination would tell a patient where their sleep apnea originates from?
Good even vik
Ive been diagnosed with sleep apnea and been given a cpap device but finding its making me feel any better in the day time. I have 2 questions i hope you can answer for me
1- my apneas are happening in the day when im
awake
2- would the implant help my sleep apnea. On my sleep study my apneas was 36
My question is in regards to comparability for patients to get an MRI?
I got one- went from 24 to 5 on AHI, would be great if they had some intelligence you can download to monitor
My first concern -- will the foreign object placed inside the body cause adverse immune response, leach toxic materials into circulation, or expose the wearer to pathogenic electromagnetic fields.
Dr Veer, I had the Inspire installed in September 2020. It was not successful for me I have a bigger problem in that I have Palatal Prolapse. Not sure why in asleep study that can’t be identified. Nor why there is not more effort put into the whole sleep breathing process. I have a problem getting my AHI down because of the Prolapse. Any feeling about this subject?
Dr. Excellent video!! How do they determine the cause of your apnea during a sleep study? I have had many and am wondering if it's a special sleep study? I can't think of a way they could determine otherwise from my experiences.
Do you need to change a battery? What if there’s an EMP would affect the generator?
Just heard about this device and wonder if it would work for those, as myself, that use biPAP. I would really love to get off the machine but not with my numbers being high.
How is it determined if your tongue is the problem? No sleep study I’ve had has ever appeared to investigate that.
They do an endoscopy to see.
Because the Inspire is fairly new, I’m wondering if anyone has had to get the device removed for non-medical reasons, and was the removal covered by their insurance? Additionally, when the battery needs to be replaced, do insurance companies cover that?
So is this device only for those who breathe through the mouth at night while using a CPAP machine? Since it only seems to stimulate the tongue.
I’m so happy I took to the Cpap. It seems like less hassle
i had a test done on my heart . i also have sleep apena. i cannot stand the mask. what weight do you need to be for this to have this procedure
I believe in this country it is a BMI of less than 30.
Very informative video. I’m in the process of meeting with an ENT specialist to get things started. I am wondering how long the timetable is after having a sleep study done, meeting with the ENT specialist to discuss having the implant and actually having the implant done. Thank you for answering so many of my questions regarding the Inspire.
I had my sleep study in April then my Ent in May, then Endoscopy on August 23. after that I dont know when the real surgery will be.
This is so helpful. Thank you!
Where can I get this? I'm in the Caribbean
Thank You........Vielen Dank Joeph USA
Vik, Do you think that device would work is my problem comes from my epiglottis ? I noticed when I’m laying on my back just resting not asleep sticking my tongue out helps and clear my airways. Thanks a lot
Is there a remote app you can download to your phone? I’m always losing things.
Also, I’d like to see a picture of a real person w it installed so I’ll know it how much it sticks out of your chest. My mother had a pacemaker that looked like a hen’s egg sticking out of her chest.
Right now I’m using the Phillips Respiromics & I’m wondering if the inspire will benefit me better! Especially now that they have issued a recall on most of these devices! I’m just nervous about having the surgery!
CPAP is a better alternative if you can tolerate it. far fewer risks, more evidence.
@@VikVeerENTSurgeon that’s what my doctor told me!
I did have a sleep test done back about 7 maybe even longer ago. I was put on a CPAP; I used it pretty faithful. Than EX-friend a hold of it and burned it up. I am wondering what I need to do now.
Does insurance pay for it in the USA and what happens if you get intubated for surgery? Will that cause a problem?
Hello Dr. I snore when I sleep on my stomach and even when I’m sitting in the car. My question is, how to know if inspire fit me? How do I know it’s my tongue not my throat collapsing as you explained? I worried about getting it and then won’t fit me.
Well done Boss
Thank you Baby! See you at work soon.
What test or who does the test called to find out if you have a tongue or lateral wall issue?
Hi Dr. Veer,
I live in San Diego, California (USA). I was diagnosed with apnea in a sleep study. My doctor just prescribed a CPAP which did not work for me. I could not get the adjustments right in able to sleep.
He did not check if it is my tongue, tonsils or other causing my apnea.
What tests would you recommend I ask a ENT specialist to perform for a better diagnosis?
Your videos are extremely helpful.
Thank you.
Kind regards,
David Silva
Dr Veer, would this work for those of us with UARS please? My CPAP isn’t treating me 100% and I am getting bad clenching, bruxism and some choking even on CPAP, my throat is so narrow! Thanks
Thanks for the info. Very interesting. Wish the US had universal health care.
Hello doc. Can you do a review on Airlift suspension procedure?
I've not done this before, but i'll look into it - thank you.
Super understandable & informative, thanks. Regards from Baltimore MD USA.
I have been using a CPap device for over 10 years. I am uncomfortable sleeping without it, in fact I think I am kind of addicted to it. If I want to sleep during the day, I can't fall asleep if I don't wear it. I hate to admit it, but I find it comforting to wear the damn thing. Am I a poor candidate for one of these devices, such as the Inspire. Greatly informative video. Thank you