NCT05429983 · Johns Hopkins University
Predicting Outcomes in Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation Therapy With Stimulated Upper Airway Mechanics
What this study is about
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly prevalent disease resulting from dynamic upper airway collapse during sleep. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is highly efficacious but high rates of non-adherence to CPAP leaves large number of OSA patients at risk for cardiometabolic sequelae.
View original scientific description
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly prevalent disease resulting from dynamic upper airway collapse during sleep. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is highly efficacious but high rates of non-adherence to CPAP leaves large number of OSA patients at risk for cardiometabolic sequelae. Inspire™ is an FDA-approved hypoglossal nerve stimulation device (HGNS) used in select patients with OSA who are intolerant of CPAP. The device consists of an implanted impulse generator with a stimulating cuff lead around the distal hypoglossal nerve. Despite these stringent selection criteria, up to one-third of patients implanted have inadequate responses to HGNS and remain at risk for complications from untreated OSA. The current proposal builds on routine clinical care to characterize upper airway biomechanics and determine predictors of clinical responses to HGNS therapy. Drug induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) is a prerequisite for HGNS treatment and represents an ideal opportunity to rapidly characterize upper airway dynamics under controlled, standardized conditions. The amount of nasal pressure required to relieve airway obstruction (minimal therapeutic pressure) is a significant predictor of successful treatment of OSA with HGNS. As a result, CPAP titration (measuring pharyngeal collapse patterns at varying nasal pressures) has become an integral part of DISE to select parties for HGNS at multiple institutions. Nevertheless, changes in upper airway collapsibility in response HGNS may differ significantly between patients. This stud will examine if changes in upper airway patency with direct genioglossus muscle stimulation at the time of DISE predicts successful treatment with HGNS as defined by a 50% reduction on apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) and an on-treatment AHI \<20.
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
- Male and female participants with moderate or severe sleep apnea (defined by \> 15 apneas and hypopneas per hour of sleep), who are undergoing DISE as part of routine evaluation for Inspire hypoglossal nerve stimulation therapy or for ineffective HGNS therapy.
Exclusion criteria
- Significant cardiac disease, unstable or recent cardiac events
- Active pulmonary, liver or renal disease
- Uncontrolled hypertension (BP\>160/100)
- Neuromuscular disease
- Major psychiatric disease
- Anticoagulation therapy (e.g. Coumadin, Dabigatran)
Where
- Baltimore, Maryland
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?
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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 Dec 24, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations