Sleep apnea device

Case contributed by Tan Lucien Mohammed
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

History of severe sleep apnea.

Patient Data

Age: 55 years
Gender: Male

Chest x-ray

x-ray

On the PA chest radiograph, the 'INSPIRE' device battery pack overlies the right lower chest. A lead to the tongue base extends upward toward the neck, out of the field of view. A disconnected diaphragm lead also extends over the right mid-chest.

Case Discussion

An INSPIRE device is present on this patient's frontal chest radiograph. This device is used in the management of sleep apnea. The disconnected inferior lead overlying the right mid chest is typically attached to the patient's chest wall and monitors for respiration. The superior lead connects to the base of the tongue. When inspiration occurs, an electrical stimulus is sent to the tongue base, moving it away from the airway and thus preventing sleep apnea.

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