Could a tiny nerve implant silence sleep apnea without a mask?
NCT ID NCT07711678
First seen Jul 17, 2026 · Last updated Jul 17, 2026
Summary
This pilot study tests an implantable device that stimulates the hypoglossal nerve to keep the airway open during sleep. It is for adults with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea who have tried but cannot tolerate a CPAP machine. The goal is to see if the device is safe and can reduce breathing pauses and improve sleep quality.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- an implantable device that electrically stimulates the hypoglossal nerve to prevent airway collapse during sleep
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a new treatment option for people with obstructive sleep apnea who cannot use a CPAP machine.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small pilot study with only 10 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The device requires surgery, and long-term safety and effectiveness are not yet known.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital
Beijing, Beijing Municipality, 102218, China
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Blood tests may one day replace sleep studies for apnea
- Freezing away sleep apnea: a new procedure targets throat fat to open the airway
- New tool aims to unmask why sleep apnea patients abandon their breathing machines
- A Two-Question survey could help doctors catch sleep disorders earlier
- Smarter Follow-Up could boost CPAP use and cut costs
- Could a whisper in your ear treat sleep apnea?