Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation

Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation (HGNS) stands as an alternative to the gold standard OSA treatment, CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), which targets the genioglossus muscle of the tongue. Despite prescreening, certain patients do not experience the full benefits of HGNS therapy, highlighting the need for improved predictors and enhanced efficacy methodologies. SUARG is investigating the pivotal role of the hyoid bone—a primary target—for enhanced HGNS effectiveness, utilizing both experimental models and computational finite element modeling. This research aims to predict therapy respondents for HGNS and guide optimal hyoid surgery repositioning to maximize its effectiveness.

In addition, in collaboration with the Neural Engineering and Nanobiosensors Group at AUB, SUARG is also developing a non-invasive approach to stimulate the hypoglossal nerve for OSA treatment, promising exciting advancements.