NCT06720545 · Columbia University
Cardiometabolic Risk Effects of Short-term Cessation of Neurostimulation Therapy
(CRESCENT)
What this study is about
Hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS) is an implantable therapy that treats obstructive sleep apnea. The study will evaluate the effect of this treatment on cardiovascular and metabolism-related measures to see if it affects patients' risk of medical problems associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
View original scientific description
Hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS) is an implantable therapy that treats obstructive sleep apnea. The study will evaluate the effect of this treatment on cardiovascular and metabolism-related measures to see if it affects patients' risk of medical problems associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Interventions
DEVICE
No HGNS therapy (HGNS-off)
Prior to enrollment in this study, participants will have been utilizing HGNS at a therapeutic voltage setting confirmed via overnight sleep study. As part of the trial, they will undergo a study arm that involves turning off HGNS therapy (HGNS-off) for between 2-4 weeks.
Primary outcome measures
Free living energy expenditure
Time frame: Data will be obtained in the last 2 weeks of each study phase (HGNS-on or HGNS-off)
The investigators will measure energy expenditure using the doubly labeled water (DLW) technique and actigraphy.
Hypoxic burden
Time frame: Data will be obtained in the last 2 weeks of each study phase (HGNS-on or HGNS-off).
The investigators will measure hypoxic burden based on the home sleep testing obtained during the study.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- English-speaking adults (18+ years) who have met surgical efficacy criteria with HGNS, as defined by at least a 50% reduction in apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) to \<20 (with hypopneas defined by 4% oxyhemoglobin desaturations)
- Have been using HGNS therapy for at least 3 months and used HGNS for \>20 hours/week during the past 4 weeks
- Were not using any OSA therapy for at least one month prior to HGNS activation or have had a one-month period of untreated OSA after HGNS activation
Exclusion criteria
- Chronic use of opiate medications, illicit drugs, or alcohol dependency
- Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant
- Shift workers, heavy machinery operators, or commercial drivers
- History of severe excessive daytime sleepiness (Epworth Sleepiness Scale score \>16 at time of screening or prior to HGNS), motor vehicle accidents or near-miss incidents due to drowsy driving within the year prior to enrollment
- Significant cardiopulmonary (such as home oxygen requirement), liver, renal, or oncologic disease; neurodegenerative disease; active or recent history of an eating disorder (within the last 5 years)
- Inability to provide informed consent
Where
- New York, New York
Collaborators
American Academy of Sleep Medicine, Triological Society, American Heart Association
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jul 10, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations