Otolaryngologic clinics of North America
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Otolaryngol. Clin. North Am. · Jun 2003
ReviewUpper airway physiology and obstructive sleep-disordered breathing.
Upper airway competence involves complex interactions between anatomy and physiology. The common final denominator of OSDB is a structurally small and abnormally collapsible upper airway. ⋯ Successful medical and surgical treatment of OSDB continues to be elusive for too many patients. Great strides remain to be taken, but the possibility seems within reach.
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Otolaryngol. Clin. North Am. · Jun 2003
ReviewTongue neuromuscular and direct hypoglossal nerve stimulation for obstructive sleep apnea.
Recent studies have shown that neuromuscular stimulation of the genioglossus muscle and direct stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve can be performed selectively and safely. Such stimulation, delivered below the arousal threshold, can modulate airflow during sleep in patients with OSA. The feasibility and potential of upper airway stimulation for the treatment of OSA have been demonstrated. Further studies and stimulation-system refinements are presently underway, with hopes of establishing upper airway stimulation as a therapeutic option for this challenging disorder.