Sleep apnea is a common respiratory disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. The condition leads to repeated interruptions in sleep, which can have a detrimental effect on one’s overall health.

In severe cases, sleep apnea may even cause heart disease, stroke, and other chronic ailments. For many years, patients with sleep apnea have relied on a CPAP machine to treat their symptoms. However, this machine can be cumbersome, and patients may find it uncomfortable to wear while sleeping.

A new, innovative chest implant developed in Great Britain may offer a new solution for sleep apnea sufferers.

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes and can happen many times throughout the night.

When breathing stops, it leads to a decrease in oxygen levels in the blood, which can cause the brain to wake the person up to start breathing again. This continuous cycle of interrupted breathing and waking up can lead to daytime fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. Sleep apnea can also cause long-term health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke if left untreated.

The current treatment for sleep apnea

The current standard treatment for sleep apnea is the use of a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. This machine works by delivering a constant stream of air pressure through a mask that covers the patient’s nose and/or mouth.

This air pressure keeps the patient’s airway from collapsing while they sleep, which helps to reduce the number of times the patient wakes up due to breathing difficulties. While CPAP can be an effective treatment for sleep apnea, many people find it uncomfortable and may struggle to use it consistently.

Introducing the new chest implant

The new chest implant was developed by researchers at a company in Great Britain. The implant is about the size of a small matchbox and is implanted just under the skin of the patient’s chest.

The implant has a small tube that extends from it, which attaches to the nerves that control the muscles responsible for breathing.

Once the implant is in place, it sends electrical signals to these muscles, which helps to keep the patient’s airway open while they sleep.

The implant is controlled by a remote, and patients can adjust the intensity of the signals based on their needs.

The advantages of the chest implant

The chest implant offers several advantages over the traditional CPAP machine. Firstly, the implant is much more discreet than the bulky mask used with CPAP. It is implanted under the skin, so there is no visible equipment while the patient is awake.

Patients can go about their daily lives as normal without worrying about how they look with the CPAP mask on their face.

Secondly, the implant is more comfortable than CPAP. Patients who have tried both treatments report that the implant is much more comfortable as there is nothing to wear on their face.

Additionally, because the implant is adjustable, patients can fine-tune the amount of stimulation they receive to suit their needs.

Finally, the implant is much easier to use than CPAP. Patients do not have to worry about cleaning and maintaining equipment or adjusting masks. The implant is easy to control, and patients can adjust it with a remote while they are lying in bed.

How effective is the chest implant?

The chest implant has been shown to be effective in clinical trials.

One study, published in the journal Lancet, found that patients who received the implant experienced a significant reduction in the number of breathing interruptions they experienced while sleeping. The study also found that patients felt more rested and alert during the day. A separate study found that patients who received the implant were more likely to use it consistently than those who used a CPAP machine.

What are the risks and side effects of the implant?

As with any medical procedure, there are risks associated with the chest implant. The implantation surgery is done under general anaesthetic, so there is a risk of complications associated with anaesthesia.

Additionally, there is a risk of infection or bleeding at the implant site.

As for side effects, some patients may experience discomfort or pain at the implant site. Others may experience muscle twitching or coughing. However, these side effects are generally mild and tend to go away on their own over time.

Who is a good candidate for the chest implant?

The chest implant is best suited for patients with moderate to severe sleep apnea who have not responded well to or are not able to tolerate CPAP treatment. It is also suitable for patients who prefer a more discreet and easier-to-use treatment option.

How to get the chest implant

The chest implant is currently only available in select countries, and it is not yet approved by the FDA for use in the United States. Patients interested in the implant should speak to their doctor to determine if they are a good candidate.

If the implant is available in their country, their doctor can refer them to a specialist who can perform the procedure.

Conclusion

The chest implant is an innovative new treatment option for patients with sleep apnea. It offers several advantages over the traditional CPAP machine, including greater comfort, ease of use, and discretion.

While the implant is not yet available in all countries, it shows promising results in clinical trials and is a good option for patients who have struggled with CPAP treatment in the past. Patients interested in the implant should speak to their doctor to learn more and determine if they are a good candidate.