Clinical Data & Evidence
Real results from Asian patients treated with HGNS at a Singapore sleep centre.
A Singapore Sleep Centre Experience
Most HGNS data comes from Western patients. But Asian patients often have different facial and airway shapes, like smaller airways, which can change how well the treatment works. That's why this study at a Singapore sleep centre matters so much for patients here.
Between May 2022 and October 2023, 15 Asian patients who couldn't get on with CPAP received a hypoglossal nerve stimulator (Inspire). Their breathing, sleepiness, and quality of life were checked before and after treatment.
The results showed a big improvement in breathing during sleep, with every patient meeting the bar for success.
What the Results Showed
The main outcomes from the study, in plain language.
fewer breathing pauses during sleep
Before
events / hour
After
events / hour
Average across 15 patients at 6-month check-up
Surgical Success
All 15 patients met the bar for success (at least 50% fewer breathing pauses, and AHI under 20).
Patients Studied
Asian patients at a single Singapore sleep centre (May 2022 to Oct 2023).
Daytime Sleepiness
Sleepiness scores stayed about the same. Patients didn't start with high sleepiness scores.
Breathing Pauses: Before vs After
AHI measures how many times per hour your breathing stops or slows during sleep. Lower is better.
AHI: Before & After Treatment
Average across 15 patients · 6-month check-up
reduction
Understanding the Measurements
AHI (Apnoea-Hypopnoea Index)
How many times per hour your breathing fully stops (apnoea) or gets very shallow (hypopnoea) during sleep. In this study, the average fell from 33.6 to 7.1, going from "moderate-to-severe" to "mild."
ESS (Epworth Sleepiness Scale)
A questionnaire that measures how sleepy you feel during the day. In this study, scores didn't change much. Patients started with fairly low sleepiness scores, so many weren't very sleepy to begin with.
FOSQ (Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire)
A questionnaire about how sleepiness affects your daily life. Scores didn't change much in this study either, likely because of the small group and short follow-up time.
Who Qualifies for This Treatment?
The study included patients who met these criteria. Your doctor will check if HGNS is right for you.
Moderate-to-Severe OSA
Diagnosed with moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (AHI of 15 or higher).
Adults 21+
Aged 21 years or older.
BMI Below 32
Body mass index under 32 kg/m².
CPAP Intolerant
Unable to tolerate or not adhering to CPAP therapy.
No Complete Palatal Collapse
A sleep endoscopy showed the airway does not completely collapse in a circular pattern at the palate.
Read the Full Study
This data comes from a published letter in the Annals, Academy of Medicine, Singapore. Want to read the full article? You can access it below.
Read the Full ArticleThis study looked at 15 patients at one centre, so it's a small group. Results may not be the same for everyone. This page is for learning only and isn't medical advice. Please talk to a qualified doctor about your own situation.
Questions About the Data?
Chat with our care team to see what these results could mean for you.