Fabricating Non-Invasive Temporal Interference Devices for Obstructive Sleep Apnea which Electrically activate the Hypoglossal Nerve

Introduction

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly prevalent disorder characterized by episodes of decreased or absent inspiratory airflow during sleep. OSA is the world’s second-most common sleep disorder, plaguing over 1 billion patients worldwide with relentless, disruptive periods of restricted airflow during sleep.

Effects of OSA

This can have dramatic effects, ranging from excessive daytime sleepiness to other comorbidities such as:

• Stroke
• Hypertension
• Depression

The effects of this disorder are pervasive and far-reaching, as diminished sleep quality eventually reduces general quality of life.

Current Treatment Options

Positive airway pressure (PAP) delivered through a tight-fitting mask is currently the most advanced technique for preventing airway collapse or airway narrowing during sleep. It is considered the primary treatment option for patients with moderate to severe OSA.

However, despite improvements in quieter pumps and more comfortable masks, this approach has several disadvantages, and patients very often struggle to comply with the therapy.

Innovative Solution

We have recently shown that a non-invasive form of HNS can be effective in treating OSA patients by using temporal interference (TI), a new non-invasive electrical stimulation technology which has been successfully advanced for other clinical applications by the PI.

Our device revolutionizes sleep apnea treatment with the efficacy of upper airway stimulation, without requiring surgery.

Technology Overview

Our proprietary new technology generates comfortable electrical fields which activate the tongue muscle and open airways. Its effectiveness is comparable to the best in the market, while remaining non-invasive and financially accessible.

Exploitation Strategy

FitSleep is an essential part of our exploitation strategy, which will ensure we advance the technology from TRL4 (currently) to TRL5. This will give us an ideal position for a subsequent EIC Transition application.