First Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulator Implant for Sleep Apnea

RALEIGH, N.C. (November 14, 2022) — Did you know that roughly 18 million American adults have sleep apnea? It’s a common condition that has treatment options available for patients. On Thursday, September 29, Dr. Mike Ferguson and Dr. Allen Marshall (WakeMed ENT – Head & Neck Surgery) completed the first hypoglossal nerve stimulator implant for sleep apnea at WakeMed. For patients with moderate to severe sleep apnea who cannot be managed by CPAP, the Inspire® implant is designed to work inside the patient’s body with the natural breathing process. The FDA-approved device acts like a pacemaker to stabilize a patient’s throat during sleep in order to prevent obstruction.

To learn more, call the WakeMed ENT – Head & Neck Surgery practice at 919-350-EARS (3277).

About WakeMed Health & Hospitals

Serving the community since 1961, WakeMed is a not-for-profit health care system founded and based in Raleigh, N.C. WakeMed exists to improve the health and well-being of our community by providing outstanding and compassionate care to all. WakeMed’s 970-bed system comprises a network of facilities throughout the Triangle area, including three full-service hospitals, seven emergency departments, a dedicated Children’s Hospital and Rehabilitation Hospital, more than 80 physician offices and Wake County’s only Level I Trauma Center. WakeMed’s mission-driven team includes more than 10,300 employees, 1,000 volunteers and 1,300 affiliated physicians, along with the more than 700 physicians and providers with WakeMed Physician Practices — all representing the best minds and the biggest hearts and the finest quality in health care and community health. For more information, visit www.wakemed.org or follow WakeMed on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

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