Hollywood – October 29, 2026 -- Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital has implanted an Inspire hypoglossal nerve stimulation device in a teenage patient with Down syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea, its first such procedure. The hospital is now the only center in South Florida offering the therapy to these patients.
How the implant keeps airways open during sleep
Inspire is described as the first FDA-approved obstructive sleep apnea treatment that works inside the body to address the root cause of the condition. A small device is implanted in a minimally invasive procedure and uses gentle stimulation to keep the airway open during sleep. Patients or caregivers turn the therapy on before bedtime by clicking a button on the Inspire remote.
Nearly 60 percent of babies with Down syndrome develop sleep apnea
The condition repeatedly interrupts breathing during sleep and can affect learning, attention, behavior and quality of life. Removing the tonsils and adenoids is often the first treatment, but many children still have sleep apnea afterward. Some also struggle to tolerate continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), which leaves families looking for alternatives.
"Having another treatment option can bring renewed hope," said Dr. Aaron Willis, Director of Sleep Medicine at the hospital.
Pivotal study shows a 60% drop in apnea severity for two-thirds of teens
In a pivotal study of adolescents with Down syndrome, approximately two-thirds of participants achieved at least a 60% reduction in apnea severity after Inspire was placed. Caregivers also reported 50% less daily tiredness and noticeable improvements in alertness and energy with consistent use.
An adult surgeon and a pediatric team performed the procedure together
Dr. Eamon McLaughlin, a community physician who treats adults within Memorial Healthcare System, performed the procedure with help from Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital specialists. The pediatric team included Willis, Dr. Galia Napchan, associate medical director of pediatric pulmonary, and Dr. Thomas Schrepfer, who specializes in pediatric otolaryngology.
The milestone comes as the Joe DiMaggio Sleep Center marks its 12th year of accreditation by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The announcement coincides with Down Syndrome Awareness Month.
FDA approval covers select adolescents ages 13 and up
Inspire therapy is FDA-approved for select adolescents ages 13 and older who have Down syndrome and severe obstructive sleep apnea. They must not be effectively treated by tonsil and adenoid surgery and must be unable to tolerate positive airway pressure therapy. A comprehensive evaluation determines eligibility.