Domestic longterm therapy of SAS by electrical auricle stimulation

Aims: Development of a noninvasive method for domestic longterm treatment of SAS by electrical auricle stimulation (EAS). A noninvasive reflex method was tested for long-term domestic therapy, applicable in large groups of SAS patients. Method: .After finding the appropriate stimulation point on the auricle of the ear, using impedance measurement, an electrode was applied to test the efficacy during one night with electrical stimulation at this point. If successful, a removable earplug was made, fixing the elctrode. A second electrode was placed behind the ear. This system was developed to be used in a home setting. Oxygen desaturation, airflow and tidal volume were recorded on a laptop. Results: Reflex activation of the brainstem inspiratory generator by EAS proved to interrupt not only obstructive but also central and mixed apnoic episodes. It was successfully used at home for 190 nights in 3 patients. AI decreased from 46.2±16.6 to 15.9±10.3 (improvement by 68%), while the total sleep time (TST) remained unchanged (343.2±53.0 vs 338.3 ±94.9). Maximum nightly home application was during 373 nights, with very good subjective improvement. The method could be useful for home therapyin an increasing number of SAS patients. Conclusion: Reflex activation of breathing by EAS provides a successful longterm domestic treatment for SAS...