Phrenic Nerve Stimulation For Central Sleep Apnea

Central sleep apnea (CSA) is characterized by sleep-disordered breathing due to diminished or absent respiratory effort. Central sleep apnea may be idiopathic or secondary (associated with a medical condition, drugs, or high altitude breathing). The use of positive airway pressure devices is currently the most common form of therapy for CSA. An implantable device that stimulates the phrenic nerve in the chest is a potential alternative treatment. The battery-powered device sends signals to the diaphragm in order to stimulate breathing and normalize sleep-related breathing patterns.