Please fill out the form below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Contrary to popular belief, Lorem Ipsum is not simply random text. It has roots in a piece of classical Latin literature from 45 BC, making it over 2000 years old.
If sleeping with CPAP is difficult, Inspire may offer another option. This FDA-approved implantable therapy helps keep the airway open during sleep for eligible patients with obstructive sleep apnea.
Inspire is an implanted neurostimulation system for eligible people with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea who cannot tolerate or adequately benefit from PAP therapy.
Instead of using air pressure, it delivers stimulation to the hypoglossal nerve, which controls tongue movement. This helps keep the tongue from obstructing the airway while you sleep.
You turn therapy on before sleep and off after waking with a handheld remote. Houston Sleep Health evaluates whether this approach fits your condition and helps guide your next steps.
Discuss Inspire therapyThe system coordinates nerve stimulation with your breathing to support an open airway without a CPAP mask or hose. These components and functions work together during treatment.
A small device placed beneath the skin of the upper chest powers and controls the prescribed stimulation.
Breathing detection helps coordinate therapy. Earlier systems use a separate sensing lead; Inspire V integrates the sensor into the implant.
A lead delivers stimulation to the hypoglossal nerve, supporting tongue-muscle movement to help maintain an open airway.
Your remote lets you turn prescribed therapy on before bedtime and off when you wake, following your care team’s instructions.
Your care team will explain the specific Inspire model being considered and how its components work. Read about the integrated Inspire V sensor.
For patients who qualify, Inspire may improve sleep and daily life. Individual results vary, and a comprehensive evaluation determines eligibility.
Both approaches can manage obstructive sleep apnea. The appropriate choice depends on your diagnosis, anatomy, treatment experience, and goals.
| Feature | Inspire therapy | CPAP |
|---|---|---|
| Mask required | No | Yes |
| Air pressure | No | Yes |
| Implant procedure | Yes | No |
| Nightly remote | Yes | Not typically required |
| Suitable for everyone | No — specific eligibility criteria apply | No — individual needs and tolerance matter |
| Evaluation required | Yes | Yes |
Inspire is not appropriate for everyone with sleep apnea. Our specialists review your sleep study, medical history, PAP experience, and airway anatomy.
Age-related criteria differ: adults 22 and older and selected patients ages 18–21 have different requirements. Meeting an age threshold alone does not establish eligibility.
Request an evaluationAnswers about treatment, recovery, travel, insurance, and ongoing care.
Ask our teamInspire is an implanted neurostimulation system for obstructive sleep apnea. It stimulates the hypoglossal nerve to help keep the airway open while you sleep.
For selected patients who cannot tolerate or adequately benefit from CPAP, Inspire may be an alternative. A comprehensive evaluation is needed before changing your treatment.
Some patients experience less snoring with treatment, but results vary. Your care team will review your symptoms and treatment response during follow-up.
The device is intended for long-term use. If removal is medically necessary, a qualified surgeon can discuss that procedure with you.
Most patients can travel with their device. Ask your provider about carrying device information, airport security, and any medical imaging precautions for your specific system.
Coverage may be available through insurance, including Medicare for eligible patients, when the applicable criteria are met. Benefits, authorization requirements, and out-of-pocket costs vary; confirm these with your plan and care team.
Recovery depends on the individual and the procedure. Your surgeon will explain the expected timeline, activity restrictions, and postoperative instructions for your situation.
Inspire treats obstructive sleep apnea; it is not a guaranteed cure. Follow-up helps your team assess results and optimize treatment settings.
Discover whether Inspire Therapy could be an appropriate option for your obstructive sleep apnea. Our team can help you understand your diagnosis, eligibility, and next steps.