Pilot Study of a Nasal Airway Stent for the Treatment on Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Study background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disease characterized by repetitive upper airway obstruction during sleep. OSA is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) has been established as a standard therapy for OSA, but it is not always tolerated by OSA patients. Objective: In a pilot study, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of the nasal airway stent (NAS), a new nasopharyngeal device placed in the nasopharynx, on OSA and snoring. Methods: Six subjects with OSA were enrolled. The apnea-hypopnea index, oxygen desaturation index, lowest oxygen saturation, and snore index were analyzed before and during treatment with the NAS. Results: All subjects tolerated the NAS, with good compliance. Treatment with the NAS ameliorated apnea and hypopnea events and improved oxygen saturation in subjects with mild to moderate OSA. Snoring in all subjects was improved by the NAS. Conclusions: The NAS stent is a readymade device that could be an alternative therapy for patients with mild to moderate OSA who cannot tolerate CPAP or for subjects with snoring.