Sleep apnea is a serious condition, causing breathing to stop and start several times during sleep. The most common form of the condition is obstructive sleep apnea, where the throat narrows, blocking the flow of air into the lungs. This makes it harder for your body to get enough oxygen and puts stress on vital organs.  People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may experience sleep problems and snore loudly. They may wake up with a dry mouth, headache, and feel sleepy, and have trouble paying attention and being irritable. Left untreated, OSA has far-reaching consequences. Among other issues, it can lead to hypertension, heart attack, stroke, and cardiac arrythmias.  Treatments for OSA include CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure), surgery, and Inspire, a mask- and hose-free implant that works inside the body, keeping your airway open while you sleep, so breath is regular and sleep is sound. It is often prescribed for people who have tried and struggled with CPAP.   Photo courtesy of CommonSpirit Health “One of the major advantages of Inspire is its simplicity. Patients use a small handheld remote, about the size of a computer mouse, to control the device,” said Dr. Nicholas A. Beckmann, DO, FAAOA, who performs Inspire surgery at St. Francis Hospital. “This simplicity is particularly valuable for our patients in Colorado who frequently travel, camp, or spend time in areas with limited access to power. Inspire offers freedom and flexibility while maintaining effective therapy.”  Inspire is one of many therapies at St. Francis Hospital, one of the busiest, most comprehensive sleep surgery programs west of the Mississippi, where a comprehensive approach to patients with obstructive sleep apnea is taken. Last year, the team performed 152 Inspire surgeries. “We recommend Inspire only when it is truly the right option for the individual patient,” said Dr. Beckmann. “We start by understanding why CPAP failed and whether that failure can be addressed. We discuss the full spectrum of treatment options, from positional therapy and oral appliances to optimizing nasal anatomy to improve CPAP tolerance, and surgical interventions when appropriate. Our goal is to ensure patients understand the severity of their condition and feel comfortable with a clear, individualized treatment plan.”   From consultation to Inspire Implant  For patients considering Inspire therapy, St. Francis Hospital is the leading Inspire implanter within the CommonSpirit system nationally. The Inspire team there is the leading implant team in the state of Colorado, with Dr. Beckmann having completed well over 500 implants. The process begins with an initial consultation that includes a review of patient history, prior therapies, and treatment challenges. A sleep study is also in order — at home or in-lab. A Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy, a brief outpatient procedure performed under sedation that uses a small camera through the nose to show the palate, pharynx, tongue base and epiglottis, may also be performed.  “The DISE study allows us to precisely identify where airway collapse is occurring and determine surgical candidacy,” said Dr. Beckmann. “Importantly, the DISE is recorded and reviewed with the patient afterward so they can clearly understand the anatomy driving their sleep apnea and the rationale behind the recommended treatment.”  Patients at St. Francis receive comprehensive support at every stage of care to maximize success with Inspire.  After implantation, patients return for a wound care check to ensure proper healing. The Inspire device is usually activated a month after surgery by the patient’s sleep medicine provider. Once activated, patients are closely monitored. Therapy starts at very low settings, which gradually increases to optimize comfort and effectiveness.  “Because Inspire works from inside the body, many patients find it easier to use consistently — and consistency is what drives long-term success in sleep apnea treatment,” said Michael Wilhelm, MD, FACS, who also performs Inspire surgery at St. Francis. A positive patient experience  Jill Hanson, MD, one of Dr. Beckmann’s patients, discovered the life-changing effects of Inspire therapy. A local allergy and immunology doctor and busy mom of twins, she struggled with extreme fatigue for more than a year before talking to her doctor. “I was having a hard time staying awake when I was watching TV, or even reading with my kids,” Dr. Hanson recounted. “I was sleeping, but never truly felt rested.”  Her doctor performed a standard sleep apnea assessment and recommended that she take a sleep study. A sleep study delivered the unexpected diagnosis: sleep apnea. She tried a CPAP machine but after using it for a short time, found the machine difficult to manage. “It was not easy to comply with,” Dr. Hanson said. The nightly routine became a battle against nosebleeds, dryness, and a feeling of claustrophobia.  Knowing Dr. Beckmann, a specialist in the field, Dr. Hanson began exploring Inspire therapy. “It’s a process,” she stated, detailing the required consultation with an ENT to determine if she was the “right type” of sleep apnea candidate. To her relief, she was.  The procedure itself proved to be surprisingly manageable. “It was same-day surgery, with incisions on my chest and chin. I was back to work within a few days.” Dr. Hanson said once the device was implanted, it quickly became an afterthought. “Over time, you just forget it’s there.” When it comes to her sleep health now, she’s elated. “I sleep so much better,” she exclaims. “I don’t wake up, I’m not messing with a mask, and I wake up feeling rested.” The crushing fatigue, the struggle to stay awake, and the dreaded “brain fog” have all gone away. “No more fatigue. I have more energy and focus … it’s liberating!” she shared.  Photo courtesy of CommonSpirit Health Breathe better, sleep better, and live better!  “Sleep apnea care can feel fragmented and overwhelming. Our mission is to simplify the process and help patients move forward with confidence toward better sleep and better health,” said Dr. Beckmann. “Patients frequently report improved energy levels, better sleep quality, and reduced snoring. For many, this means their bed partner can return to the bedroom, which has a meaningful impact on relationships and overall quality of life. Most importantly, treatment significantly reduces the risk of long-term cardiovascular complications.” Dr. Wilhelm agreed and added, “When treated appropriately, obstructive sleep apnea is one of the most rewarding conditions to manage. Patients (and their partners) often report better sleep, more energy, and improved focus. It’s one of the most rewarding therapies we offer to patients.” Care at CommonSpirit is inspired by faith, driven by innovation, and powered by humanity. Learn more at CommonSpirit Health | Health Care in Colorado, Kansas Utah.  ...read more read less