Bilateral Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation (Nyxoah System)
Medically reviewed by Dr. Iván Méndez-Benegassi Silva · Otorhinolaryngology (ENT) Specialist with over 25 years of experience in sleep surgery and advanced rhinology · European Board Certificate (ORL-HNS) · HM Hospitales, Madrid · License No. 282855946
An alternative to CPAP for selected patients: wireless hypoglossal nerve stimulation for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
The End of Machine Dependence
Many patients with moderate to severe Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) cannot adapt to the positive pressure mask (CPAP). Poor adherence not only affects rest but also increases cardiovascular risk.
The Nyxoah (Genio™) system represents a generational leap: it is the first bilateral hypoglossal nerve stimulation system that keeps the airways open through gentle activation of the tongue muscles, allowing natural breathing without obstructions throughout the night.
How Does Nyxoah Technology Work?
Unlike other implants, Nyxoah uses a bilateral stimulation approach.
The Implant
A tiny micro-stimulator is placed on the hypoglossal nerve through a minimally invasive surgery under the chin.
No Internal Batteries
The device has no internal battery, which avoids future surgeries for replacements.
Patch Activation
Each night, the patient places a small adhesive patch under the chin. This patch transmits energy and data to the implant wirelessly, activating therapy only when needed.
Clinical Evidence and Benefits
Based on the latest clinical trials (BLAST-OSA and Elios studies), patients report:
- AHI Reduction: Significant decrease in respiratory events per hour.
- Quality of Life Improvement: Drastic reduction of daytime sleepiness and mood improvement.
- Outpatient Surgery: The procedure usually takes less than one hour and the patient goes home the same day or within 24h.
Are You a Candidate for the Nyxoah Implant?
This procedure is indicated for patients who meet the following medical criteria:
- Diagnosis of moderate to severe OSA (AHI between 15 and 65).
- CPAP failure or intolerance (inability to use for more than 4 hours per night).
- Airway Evaluation: Absence of complete concentric collapse in the oropharynx (verified by sleep endoscopy or DISE).
- BMI < 35: Treatment is more effective in patients without morbid obesity.
Nyxoah vs. Other Treatments
| Feature | CPAP | Airway Surgery | Nyxoah |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Low (mask/noise) | Variable | High (invisible) |
| Invasiveness | None | High | Minimal |
| Long-term Efficacy | Use-dependent | Variable | Consistent |
| Batteries/Cables | Power cable | N/A | No internal cables |
| Adherence | Low (40-60%) | N/A | High (>80%) |
CE Marking & Clinical Validation
The Nyxoah Genio® system has CE marking for clinical use in Europe and is backed by multicenter clinical trials (BLAST-OSA, Elios).
Frequently Asked Questions
Have you been diagnosed with Apnea?
Use our Positional Therapy App to monitor your posture before the implant.
Explore Positional TherapyTake the next step in your evaluation
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Where I see patients in Madrid
I see patients in person at my HM Hospitales clinics (HM Madrid, HM Valdebebas and HM Tres Cantos), or by personalized video consultation if you prefer.
Private consultation, no waiting lists
Call the appointments line: you get your appointment during the same call, at any of my three clinics.
Call · 910 786 601- HM Madrid
Wednesdays 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM - HM Valdebebas
Tuesdays 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM - HM Tres Cantos
Tuesdays 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
€150, paid at the reception desk of the clinic. It is not processed through insurance, except for reimbursement insurance.
Coming with your health insurance? Book with HM: 919 370 000.
HM Madrid
HM Madrid University Hospital
Pl. del Conde del Valle de Súchil, 16
28015 MadridWith insurance (book with HM): Wednesdays 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
How to get thereHM Valdebebas
HM Valdebebas Polyclinic
Av. de Juan Antonio Samaranch, 51
28055 MadridWith insurance (book with HM): Tuesdays 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
How to get thereHM Tres Cantos
HM Tres Cantos University Hospital
C. Santiago Ramón y Cajal, 23
28760 Tres CantosWith insurance (book with HM): Tuesdays and Wednesdays 9:30 AM - 1:30 PM
How to get there