HGNS Therapy

[lesfam]

Does anyone have information about viability of an experimental procedure for obstructive sleep apnea in an Apnex Clinical Study, including success rate to date and comfort level?

[deltadave]

You're in luck!

The best objective analysis of HGNS just happens to be right here!!

[chunkyfrog]

This technology is in its infancy.
I wish them well.
Too many OSA sufferers feel they do not have the strength left to tackle CPAP therapy.
I know of no insurance company that will cover the device--yet.

[themonk]

I have the packet for the trial. I talked with them a few weeks ago and made it past the initial screening to be a participant. I haven't decided if I will proceed since it sounds like an oral appliance would be a better treatment for me.

What questions do you have? I have look over the material and try to answer them.

[Jeannelynne]

Hi All,

I have the APNEX HGNS device. I was implanted in January and the device was turned on in February. It is wonderful and has really improved my life. I never ever want to be without it again. Now the bummer part of being in this study........

I received a call this week that my trial was indefinitely suspended as the company is reorganizing. I am assuming after a lot of calls that it is a funding issue. My choices as explained to me are to have the device explanted (surgically removed) or to use it until the battery runs out with no medical monitoring.

Be sure you check on their current status before you join the study!

Jeanne Lynne

[chunkyfrog]

I assume the battery life is about the same as an implanted cardiac defibrillator.
Will they cover extraction after the battery runs down; or only right away?
Or can you pay to have the battery replaced?
There really should be support for the device after the company folds--(maybe not for a test unit?)
manufacturers are required to provide service/parts for 7 years--federal law. (I heard somewhere)
You should contact the federal regulators--something should be possible. You could always sue the pants off them!
Bummer!

[Jeannelynne]

Thanks chunk frog. I couldn't agree with you more. I did contact the FDA but have not heard back and contacted the local TV station and was contacted by a reporter who contacted the company and the doctor. We will see where it goes

Jeanne Lynne

[chunkyfrog]

Write your elected official --Certified mail.
It's an election year--somebody may need some good face time/media points.