AIRLIFT vs. Inspire: Comparing Recovery and Long-Term Benefits for Sleep Apnea Patients
For those struggling with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who find CPAP therapy challenging, new medical technology using implantable devices offers an innovative treatment alternative. Selecting the best option for your needs can be challenging, so we’ve helped take some of the guess work out of the process with a side-by-side comparison of two popular OSA treatments: AIRLIFT® and Inspire.
AIRLIFT vs. Inspire: How They Work
While both AIRLIFT and Inspire are implantable devices, there are some key differences in the technology behind each product.
AIRLIFT is designed to address tongue-based airway obstruction, a common cause of OSA, through hyoid or tongue suspension. AIRLIFT is particularly suitable for patients seeking a less invasive option and, if needed, additional way to combine treatments easily, compared to more complex surgical approaches such as genioglossus advancement or hypoglossal nerve stimulation.
The Inspire implant is designed to trigger upper-airway stimulation through gentle pulses that move the tongue out of the way each time a breath is taken, keeping patients’ airway open while they sleep. The device is implanted under the skin of the chest and neck.
AIRLIFT vs. Inspire: Procedure and Recovery
AIRLIFT is known for its minimally invasive approach. The procedure can typically be completed within 30 minutes in an outpatient setting, allowing patients to return to most normal activities within a week. This quick recovery is due to the nature of the procedure, which causes minimal disruption to surrounding tissues.
AIRLIFT patients often appreciate the simplicity post-recovery, with no external devices to manage nightly.
Inspire requires a more complex, longer procedure that involves implanting a device under the skin of the chest and bringing an electrode up through the neck and into the base of the tongue. The procedure can be performed on an outpatient basis and takes an average of 90 minutes to perform. Many patients find the recovery manageable, with most returning to non-strenuous activities within a few weeks post-procedure.
AIRLIFT vs. Inspire: Long-Term
Immediately after recovery from surgery, AIRLIFT will be working to improve your sleep quality. Patients can enjoy better sleep without the need for a nightly mask use or machine operation. The implants are designed to be permanent and provide a long-lasting change to improve your airway.
Inspire has also demonstrated long-term benefits for OSA patients, with many users reporting improved sleep quality and reduced snoring. To achieve a benefit, this therapy does require users to utilize a small remote to activate the device before sleep.
AIRLIFT vs. Inspire: Patient Payment Options
Both AIRLIFT and Inspire are typically covered by insurance for eligible patients. AIRLIFT is covered by most private insurance as well as Medicare and TRICARE. However, it’s important to check with your insurance provider for specific coverage details.
Evaluating Your Options
Both AIRLIFT and Inspire represent significant advancements in OSA treatment, offering alternatives for patients who have struggled with CPAP therapy. AIRLIFT provides a minimally invasive approach with quick recovery that has benefited many patients.
- When considering AIRLIFT or Inspire, it’s crucial to consult with a sleep specialist who can evaluate your specific case. Factors to consider include:
- Severity and type of OSA
- Previous treatments tried
- Personal preferences for therapy management
- Overall health and medical history
Ultimately, the choice between AIRLIFT and Inspire should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider, taking into account your specific medical needs, lifestyle preferences, and long-term health goals.
With these advanced options, patients now have more choices than ever to effectively manage their sleep apnea and improve their quality of life. Find a doctor near you today to see if AIRLIFT is the right option for you.
