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Updates of operative techniques for upper airway stimulation
Author(s) -
Heiser Clemens,
Thaler Erica,
Boon Maurits,
Soose Ryan J.,
Woodson B. Tucker
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
the laryngoscope
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.181
H-Index - 148
eISSN - 1531-4995
pISSN - 0023-852X
DOI - 10.1002/lary.26158
Subject(s) - hypoglossal nerve , medicine , airway , cuff , intercostal nerves , obstructive sleep apnea , tongue , stimulation , anesthesia , surgery , pathology
Selective upper airway stimulation has been established as an additional treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Essential for the treatment is the precise placement of the cuff electrode for select branches of the hypoglossal nerve, which innervate the protrusors and stiffeners of the tongue. A direct approach to the distal hypoglossal nerve has been established to achieve this goal. For surgeons, detailed knowledge of this anatomy is vital. Another decisive step is the placement of the sensing lead between the intercostal muscles. Also, the complexity of follow‐up care postoperatively should be kept in mind. The aim of this article is to provide the latest knowledge on the neuroanatomy of the hypoglossal nerve and to give surgeons a step‐by‐step guide on the current operative technique. Laryngoscope , 126:S12–S16, 2016