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Improved exposure of the hypoglossal branches during hypoglossal nerve stimulator implantation: Clinical outcomes of twenty patients at a single institution

This retrospective study examined 20 patients who underwent hypoglossal nerve stimulation implantation for treatment of obstructive sleep apnea at a single institution. We utilized a modification in standard surgical technique allowing improved visualization of the distal hypoglossal nerve. Main outcome and measures included apnea hypoxia index, oxygen desaturation index, mean and minimum saturation and percentage of time below 90% saturation. We examined operative time and adverse events. Epworth Sleepiness Score and post-operative questionnaires was used to assess subjective measures of outcome. Our outcomes favorably compare to previously reported HNS outcomes and highlights the importance of optimal visualization of the hypoglossal nerve distal branches. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.