NCH First in Florida to Activate New Implantable Therapy for Sleep Apnea

by Paul Hiltz, NCH President & CEO

I am proud to announce that Naples Comprehensive Health (NCH) has become the first healthcare system in Florida to activate a new implantable therapy designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea, marking a significant milestone for patients who struggle with traditional treatments such as CPAP.

Sleep apnea affects millions of Americans and is associated with serious health risks, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and diabetes. By becoming the first in Florida to activate this bilateral nerve stimulation therapy, NCH continues to expand access to advanced, patient-centered treatments inSouthwest Florida.

The therapy, known as GENIO is a form of hypoglossal nerve stimulation therapy. In simple terms, the system sends mild electrical signals to the nerves that control tongue movement, helping prevent the tongue from relaxing backward and blocking the airway during sleep.

What makes this technology especially innovative is its design. The implant itself does not contain a battery. Instead, it is powered by a small external component worn discreetly under the chin at night, allowing therapy to begin only during sleep. After implantation and healing, the device is activated and carefully customized to synchronize with the patient’s natural breathing pattern during sleep.

Recently, two patients were successfully activated by our expert team at the NCH Pulmonary and Sleep Center, led by Jose Valle, MD and Gaja Shaughnessy, MD along with the program’s dedicated nurse navigator. Activation is the moment when the therapy is turned on for the first time and programmed specifically for each individual patient. This personalized approach reflects the standard of care we are committed to delivering across our health system.

By becoming the first in Florida to activate this bilateral nerve stimulation therapy, NCH continues to advance patient-centered, leading-edge care right here in Southwest Florida. Our patients no longer need to travel out of state to access this level of sleep apnea care.

This technology gives us another option for patients who have not been successful with CPAP and are looking for a proven, alternative approach.

Patients interested in learning whether they may be candidates for implantable sleep apnea therapy should speak with their sleep medicine provider or contact the NCH Pulmonary and Sleep Center at 239-624-8250.