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For patients who struggle with CPAP therapy but need effective treatment for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea, Inspire offers an innovative alternative. This FDA-approved implantable device works with your body’s natural breathing process, delivering mild stimulation to key airway muscles during sleep to keep the airway open. At Integrative ENT, led by Michael S. Cohen, MD, our team provides expert evaluation and management for Inspire therapy at his Long Island practice, helping patients who cannot tolerate CPAP find a comfortable, effective solution for sleep apnea.

01

Advanced Alternative to Traditional CPAP Therapy

The team at Integrative ENT, led by Michael S. Cohen, MD, brings over 25 years of specialized experience…Explore this topicClose topic

The team at Integrative ENT, led by Michael S. Cohen, MD, brings over 25 years of specialized experience in diagnosing and treating sleep-related breathing disorders. As a board-certified otolaryngologist and a Top Doctor recognized by NY Top Docs for 25 consecutive years, Dr. Cohen has helped form a team that offers comprehensive evaluations to determine whether Inspire therapy is the right solution for patients struggling with traditional CPAP treatment.

“Many patients find CPAP machines uncomfortable or impractical, leading to low compliance rates despite their effectiveness,” explains Dr. Cohen. “Inspire therapy represents a significant advancement for these patients, offering similar benefits without the mask, hose, or machine. For the right candidates, it can be truly life-changing.” This innovative approach provides effective sleep apnea treatment for patients who have been unable to benefit from traditional therapies.

02

Understanding Inspire Sleep Apnea Therapy

Inspire is an FDA-approved treatment for obstructive sleep apnea that works from inside the body with your natural…Explore this topicClose topic

Inspire is an FDA-approved treatment for obstructive sleep apnea that works from inside the body with your natural breathing process. Unlike CPAP, which uses forced air to keep the airway open, Inspire uses gentle stimulation to maintain airway patency during sleep.

The system consists of three components: a small generator implanted in the upper chest, a breathing sensor lead, and a stimulation lead that delivers mild stimulation to the hypoglossal nerve controlling tongue movement. When the device detects you’re about to take a breath during sleep, it sends a gentle pulse to the hypoglossal nerve, causing the tongue to move slightly forward and open the airway.

Approved by the FDA in 2014, Inspire has been proven effective in multiple clinical studies. The STAR trial demonstrated a 79% reduction in sleep apnea events and significant improvements in quality of life measures, with consistent results maintained at 5-year follow-up. Over 25,000 patients worldwide have received Inspire therapy, with high satisfaction rates and improved sleep outcomes.

03

Ideal Candidates for Inspire Therapy

Inspire therapy is specifically designed for patients who:Explore this topicClose topic

Inspire therapy is specifically designed for patients who:

  • Have been diagnosed with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea (AHI between 15 and 65)
  • Cannot use or benefit from CPAP therapy despite adequate attempts
  • Are not significantly overweight (typically BMI less than 35)
  • Are 22 years of age or older
  • Have specific airway anatomy compatible with the therapy, as determined by airway examination

The specialists at Integrative ENT conduct a thorough evaluation including airway assessment to determine if Inspire is appropriate for each patient’s specific condition and anatomy. This careful screening process helps ensure optimal outcomes for those who proceed with the therapy.

04

The Inspire Procedure and Experience

Receiving Inspire therapy involves a straightforward process:Explore this topicClose topic

Receiving Inspire therapy involves a straightforward process:

Evaluation and Candidacy Assessment

Before Inspire therapy is recommended, a thorough evaluation is conducted to determine patient eligibility. This typically includes:

  • Review of sleep study results and previous treatment attempts
  • Examination of upper airway anatomy using drug-induced sleep endoscopy
  • Discussion of medical history and suitability for a surgical procedure

This detailed evaluation ensures the therapy is appropriate for your specific condition.

Outpatient Procedure

The Inspire system is implanted during a short outpatient procedure:

  • Typically performed under general anesthesia
  • Takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete
  • Involves two or three small incisions
  • Patients usually return home the same day
  • Recovery period of approximately 1-2 weeks before returning to normal activities

The minimally invasive nature of the procedure means less discomfort and faster recovery compared to traditional sleep apnea surgeries.

Activation and Use

About one month after implantation:

  • The device is activated during a brief office visit
  • Patients receive a small remote control to turn the therapy on before sleep and off upon waking
  • Settings are adjusted to ensure optimal comfort and effectiveness
  • Regular follow-up ensures continued benefit from the therapy

The simple, non-disruptive nature of the therapy supports high compliance rates and consistent use.

Benefits and Outcomes

Patients who receive Inspire therapy typically experience significant improvements:

  • Substantial reduction in sleep apnea events
  • Decreased snoring (90% of bed partners report reduction)
  • Improved sleep quality and daytime alertness
  • Better quality of life and mood
  • No mask, hose, or machin
    e to manage
  • The ability to sleep in any position
  • High satisfaction rates (94% of patients would recommend the therapy)

Clinical studies have demonstrated that these benefits remain consistent even after years of use, with patients maintaining their improvements long-term.

Man snoring while sleeping in bed at home
05

Frequently Asked Questions About Inspire Therapy

Yes, Inspire therapy is covered by most major insurance providers, including Medicare. Our office staff works closely with…Explore this topicClose topic
Is Inspire therapy covered by insurance?

Yes, Inspire therapy is covered by most major insurance providers, including Medicare. Our office staff works closely with patients to navigate the insurance approval process and verify coverage.

What does the stimulation feel like?

Most patients describe the stimulation as a gentle tongue movement that isn’t painful or disruptive to sleep. The therapy is designed to work in harmony with your natural breathing pattern.

How long does the Inspire device last?

The battery in the Inspire system typically lasts 7-10 years. When the battery needs replacement, a simple outpatient procedure is performed to replace the generator component.

Can I use MRI with Inspire?

Patients with Inspire can undergo MRI examinations under specific conditions. Dr. Cohen can provide detailed information about MRI compatibility based on the latest guidelines.

Can I feel the device when it’s implanted?

While you may initially be aware of the device, most patients report they quickly become accustomed to it and don’t notice it during daily activities.

How soon will I see results?

Most patients begin to experience benefits shortly after activation, with continued improvement as settings are optimized during follow-up visits.

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06

Why Choose Integrative ENT for Inspire Therapy

At Integrative ENT, Inspire therapy is offered as part of a comprehensive, team-based approach to treating sleep apnea.…Explore this topicClose topic

At Integrative ENT, Inspire therapy is offered as part of a comprehensive, team-based approach to treating sleep apnea. The practice combines advanced airway expertise with personalized care to help patients find relief when CPAP has not worked.

  • Board-certified ENT providers with specialized training in sleep-related breathing disorders
  • Thorough, criteria-based evaluation to determine Inspire candidacy
  • Surgical expertise in implanting and fine-tuning Inspire devices
  • Collaborative care with sleep medicine specialists for well-rounded treatment
  • Ongoing follow-up and device management to ensure lasting results
  • Recognized excellence in care, with Michael S. Cohen, MD named a NY Top Doctor for 25 consecutive years
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07

Effective CPAP Alternative for Sleep Apnea

If you’ve struggled with CPAP therapy but need effective treatment for your sleep apnea, Inspire may provide the…Explore this topicClose topic

If you’ve struggled with CPAP therapy but need effective treatment for your sleep apnea, Inspire may provide the solution you’ve been seeking. Dr. Cohen and his team offer expert evaluation to determine if this innovative therapy is right for you, potentially freeing you from the challenges of CPAP while effectively treating your sleep apnea.

Evaluation for Inspire therapy is available at both our Syosset and Port Jefferson Station locations, making this CPAP alternative accessible throughout Nassau and Suffolk counties. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation and explore this advanced treatment option.