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NCH First in Florida

to Activate New Implantable Therapy for Sleep Apnea

by Paul Hiltz,
Naples Comprehensive Health President & CEO
am proud to announce that Naples Recently, two patients were successfully activated by our expert
Comprehensive Health (NCH) has team at the NCH Pulmonary and Sleep Center, led by Jose
I become the first healthcare system Valle, MD and Gaja Shaughnessy, MD along with the program’s
in Florida to activate a new implantable dedicated nurse navigator. Activation is the moment when the
therapy designed to treat obstructive sleep therapy is turned on for the first time and programmed specifically
apnea, marking a significant milestone for each individual patient. This personalized approach reflects the
for patients who struggle with traditional standard of care we are committed to delivering across our health
treatments such as CPAP. system.
Sleep apnea affects millions of Americans and is associated By becoming the first in Florida to activate this bilateral nerve
with serious health risks, including heart disease, stroke, high stimulation therapy, NCH continues to advance patient-centered,
blood pressure, and diabetes. By becoming the first in Florida to leading-edge care right here in Southwest Florida. Our patients no
activate this bilateral nerve stimulation therapy, NCH continues longer need to travel out of state to access this level of sleep apnea
to expand access to advanced, patient-centered treatments in care.
Southwest Florida. This technology gives us another option for patients who have
The therapy, known as GENIO is a form of hypoglossal nerve not been successful with CPAP and are looking for a proven,
stimulation therapy. In simple terms, the system sends mild alternative approach.
electrical signals to the nerves that control tongue movement, Patients interested in learning whether they may be candidates
helping prevent the tongue from relaxing backward and blocking for implantable sleep apnea therapy should speak with their sleep
the airway during sleep. medicine provider or contact the NCH Pulmonary and Sleep
What makes this technology especially innovative is its Center at 239-624-8250.
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.

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