Adrian Velasquez, MD, MPH, ATSF, FAASM, Medical Director of Sleep Medicine at MelroseWakefield Hospital and Lawrence Memorial Hospital of Medford, recently oversaw the first Inspire V device implantation at Tufts Medicine. The procedure was performed by otolaryngologist Matthew Russell, MD, at MelroseWakefield Hospital.
This innovative, mask-free treatment offers new hope for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), providing an effective alternative for those who struggle with traditional therapies like CPAP.
What is Inspire—and who's it for?
Inspire therapy is an option for adults with moderate to severe sleep apnea who haven’t had success with Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy. Unlike CPAP machines, which use air pressure delivered through a mask and hose, Inspire works from within the body. It gently stimulates the airway muscles during sleep to keep the airway open and not requiring any external equipment. The Inspire has been around for over a decade and latest version—Inspire V represents a major leap forward in this already game-changing technology.
If you’re over 18, have tried CPAP but found it hard to use, and meet certain medical criteria, Inspire could be a good option for you.
What’s new about Inspire V?
With the newest version, Inspire V, we've taken out a part called the sensing lead. This part was used before to find breathing patterns, Dr. Velasquez says. “Now, sensing is done entirely through the device’s generator using an accelerometer. This means we’re implanting less hardware, reducing surgical time and simplifying the procedure overall.”
What’s the procedure like?
According to Dr. Velasquez, Inspire V implantation is a straightforward outpatient surgery that typically takes about an hour to an hour and a half.
“Most patients go home the same day,” he says. “They’ll experience some soreness and swelling near the two incision sites, but that generally improves within the first week. We recommend avoiding strenuous activity for a couple of weeks, especially on the side of the implant.”
The device isn’t activated right away. Patients return to their sleep specialist about 30 days after surgery for a quick visit to turn it on and start therapy.
How long does Inspire last?
“Inspire is built to last,” Dr. Velasquez notes. “The generator—the part with the battery—is approved for up to 11 years. After that, we simply replace that component. The stimulation lead, which connects to the nerve, stays in place and doesn’t need to be replaced.”
What does Inspire V mean for patients?
For many people, Inspire is more than just a new treatment—it’s a new lease on life.
“Sleep apnea is more than just snoring or feeling tired,” says Dr. Velasquez. “Untreated OSA can lead to serious health conditions like heart disease, stroke, and chronic fatigue. For patients who haven’t been able to use CPAP effectively, Inspire gives them hope and a path forward.”
The best part? It’s easy to use. Patients simply click a button on a small handheld remote when they’re ready to go to sleep. That’s it.
“No mask. No hose. Just sleep,” Dr. Velasquez adds with a smile. “For many of our patients, that’s the biggest relief of all.”
If you’re living with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea and have struggled with CPAP, you don’t have to settle for restless nights and daily fatigue. Talk to your doctor or sleep specialist today to see if you qualify. A simple evaluation could be your first step toward better sleep and better health.
