Hypoglossal Nerve (Cranial Nerve XII) Stimulation

Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 2020 Feb;53(1):157-169. doi: 10.1016/j.otc.2019.09.010. Epub 2019 Nov 4.

Abstract

Hypoglossal nerve stimulation is a novel strategy for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Its anatomy allows for easy surgical access, and its function as a motor nerve allows for tolerable neurostimulation. It has shown success as a therapy for the treatment of OSA with a greater than 80% success rate. Patients who use the device not only show improvement in symptoms but also tolerate the device well with high rates of adherence to therapy as well as a high majority preferring it over continuous positive airway pressure therapy.

Keywords: Hypoglossal nerve stimulation; Obstructive sleep apnea; Upper airway stimulation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Continuous Positive Airway Pressure
  • Electric Stimulation Therapy*
  • Humans
  • Hypoglossal Nerve*
  • Sleep Apnea, Obstructive / therapy*