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NorthShore performs first sleep apnea device implant

EVANSTON - NorthShore University HealthSystem is the first health system in Illinois to implant a new, minimally invasive breathing device in a patient to help cure obstructive sleep apnea.

The procedure - recently approved by the FDA - was completed Sept. 16 at NorthShore Evanston Hospital by Otolaryngologists Mihir Bhayani, M.D., and Jonathan Pomerantz, M.D. It involved implanting a pacemaker-like device in the patient's chest that senses the breathing cycle and stimulates a nerve in the tongue, helping keep the tongue down and the airway open. The procedure requires only three small incisions - in the neck and chest.

"This is an exciting, new alternative to more invasive surgical techniques that have much lower success rates," said Mark E. Gerber, M.D., Division Chief of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery at NorthShore. "We are proud to be the first in the state to offer this advanced technique."

The device, made by Inspire Medical Systems, Inc., is designed for people with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea who are unable to use CPAP. The procedure done at NorthShore was covered by insurance.

As many as 50 percent of patients with obstructive sleep apnea are unable or unwilling to use the CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) mask, Dr. Gerber said. By contrast, all it takes to activate the new implanted sensor is pressing a button on a hand-held device before going to sleep.

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