Inspire™ Procedure

At Florida ENT Associates, we stay at the leading edge in the latest, most innovative solutions to improve the health of our patients. One such solution is the Inspire™ system, a revolutionary advancement in treating obstructive sleep apnea. This FDA-approved medical device offers an alternative to traditional treatments such as CPAP machines or surgery, providing effective relief without discomfort or inconvenience.

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The Inspire™ System

The Inspire™ system is an innovative medical technology that aligns with the body's natural functions to promote healthier breathing during sleep. It delivers mild stimulation to the hypoglossal nerve, which governs tongue and muscle movements in the airways.

When activated, the Inspire™ system sends gentle electrical impulses to this nerve, triggering subtle movements in the tongue and related muscles. This helps to keep the airway open, reducing the risk of sleep-related breathing issues like obstructive sleep apnea. The Inspire™ system offers a minimally invasive, effective solution for improved breathing during sleep, working in harmony with the body's inherent mechanisms.

Is Sleep Apnea a Serious Condition?

Sleep apnea is not just a sleep disorder. If untreated, it can lead to serious health conditions such as:

Heart disease: Frequent awakenings at night can cause hormonal changes that increase heart rate and blood pressure.
Stroke: Oxygen deprivation during sleep may lead to blood clots, which can cause a stroke.
Memory loss: Disruptions in sleep patterns can affect the brain's ability to consolidate memories, potentially leading to Alzheimer's disease.

Why Choose Inspire™?

The Inspire™ system is an effective solution for treating sleep apnea. By stimulating the hypoglossal nerve, it keeps the airways open during sleep. Treating sleep apnea with the Inspire™ system not only improves sleep quality but also contributes to enhanced health. It's a proactive step towards safeguarding long-term health.

What Are the Benefits of Inspire™?

Inspire™ offers numerous benefits over traditional sleep apnea treatments:

No bulky machines, masks, or hoses
Silent operation for undisturbed sleep
Safe, FDA-approved treatment

In fact, 90% of bed partners report no snoring post-Inspire treatment, and 96% of patients favor Inspire over CPAP and would recommend it to others.

Am I a Candidate for Inspire™?

You may be a suitable candidate for Inspire™ therapy if:

You have moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea
You struggle with consistent CPAP use or benefits
You're not significantly overweight
You're over the age of 22

Our Inspire™ therapy-trained doctors will evaluate your overall health status and physically examine your airway to determine if Inspire™ therapy is an appropriate approach in your case.

About the Inspire™ Surgery

The Inspire™ procedure involves placing the system beneath the skin of the neck and chest through two small incisions. As an outpatient surgery, it requires minimal recovery time. Any discomfort is easily managed with over-the-counter pain medication, and patients typically resume normal activities within a few days. Full recovery occurs within one to two weeks, depending on individual healing rates.

Why Choose Us for Inspire™ Therapy?

For over 30 years, Florida ENT Associates has been dedicated to making ENT care accessible and efficient. Today, our network boasts over 50 highly trained ENT providers across more than 30 locations, ready to address a wide range of ENT concerns with state-of-the-art treatments.

Since our inception, our mission has been clear: to deliver cutting-edge treatments to our patients. This mission is brought to life every day through our unwavering commitment to advances in medicine and a passion for improving the health of our patients.

Our network is composed of highly skilled physicians, each specializing in different areas of ENT, ensuring that every patient receives care that's specifically suited to their needs. But our team doesn't stop at physicians - it also includes over 40 allied professionals and a devoted administrative staff, all collaborating to deliver a seamless healthcare experience.

FAQ

What does Inspire™ therapy feel like?

Patients often describe Inspire™ therapy as a mild tingling sensation or slight tongue contraction. The stimulation level is adjustable and tailored to your comfort and response to treatment. The system can be easily controlled using a remote, allowing you to activate it before sleep and turn it off upon waking.

Is Inspire™ therapy covered by health insurance?

Insurance coverage for Inspire™ therapy varies per individual plan. Generally, if you've tried other treatments unsuccessfully, your insurance may cover some or all costs. The first step is a consultation with us to evaluate your condition and discuss prior treatments. If Inspire™ is suitable for you, we'll assist in seeking approval from your insurer. Our team is here to help answer any insurance-related questions and guide you through the process.