Development of asynchronous, intralingual electrical stimulation to treat obstructive sleep apnea

We are evaluating the feasibility of using a single intralingual BION™ microstimulator to prevent airway obstruction in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Neuromuscular and hypoglossal nerve stimulation of the genioglossus have been reported to expand the oropharyngeal airway and reduced the severity of sleep disordered breathing, but currently available technology is invasive and cumbersome. BIONs are chronically implanted, single channel electrical stimulators powered and commanded by inductive coupling. One such microminiature device (16 mm long × 2 mm diameter) can be injected submentally into the genioglossus muscle to stiffen and protrude the tongue. Preliminary results suggest that intermittent opening of airway at the same rate but not synchronized to the respiratory cycle may be effective. Research is underway to complete the preclinical studies required to identify the safety, efficacy and practicality of this technology and implantation approach.