Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulator in the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in a Menopausal Woman with CPAP Intolerance

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a disorder of breathing characterized by recurrent collapse of the upper airway leading to reduction of airflow while sleeping. This results in intermittent drop in oxygen saturation, reduced air flow, frequent arousals and, non-restorative sleep. Untreated moderate and severe obstructive sleep apnea is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular complications, mental health disorders, and poor quality of life. Although OSA is most commonly associated with male sex, obesity and advancing age; postmenopausal women are at a higher risk for significant OSA and often go unrecognized. Treatment options for obstructive sleep apnea in patients that do not tolerate CPAP or BPAP includes mandibular advancement device, weight management, oropharyngeal surgery, and surgery for implanted hypoglossal nerve stimulator device. In this chapter we will learn about the presentation of obstructive sleep apnea in postmenopausal women and treatment option of implanted hypoglossal nerve stimulator.