Our Lady of Fatima Hospital recently celebrated an important milestone with the completion of its 100th Inspire procedure, an innovative treatment option for people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who are unable to tolerate Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy.
The milestone procedure was performed by Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) specialists Dr. John Tarro, MD, and Dr. Zachary Quay De La Vallee, MD.
Fatima Hospital was one of the first hospitals in Rhode Island, and the only hospital in the Providence metropolitan area, to begin offering Inspire therapy when the program launched last year. Reaching 100 procedures marks significant growth for the program and reflects CharterCARE Health of Rhode Island’s continued investment in advanced treatment options for patients throughout the region.
A Different Approach to Treating Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea affects an estimated 22 million Americans and occurs when the airway repeatedly collapses or becomes blocked during sleep. When this happens, oxygen flow is interrupted and the brain briefly wakes the body to restore normal breathing. This cycle can occur repeatedly throughout the night, disrupting sleep and preventing the body from getting the restorative rest it needs.
Left untreated, OSA can have serious effects on a person’s health and quality of life. The condition has been associated with daytime fatigue, changes in mood and memory, increased risk of workplace and motor vehicle accidents, and serious cardiovascular complications including stroke and heart attack.
CPAP therapy is a common and effective treatment for sleep apnea, but some patients have difficulty using or tolerating it. Inspire provides an alternative for eligible patients.
Unlike CPAP, Inspire works inside the body with the patient’s natural breathing process. The system delivers mild stimulation that helps keep the airway open during sleep, allowing oxygen to flow naturally. Patients control the therapy using a small handheld remote, turning Inspire on before going to sleep and off when they wake up.
Expanding Access to Innovative Care in Rhode Island
Completing 100 Inspire procedures represents more than a milestone for the Fatima Hospital team. It demonstrates the hospital’s continued commitment to expanding access to advanced treatments and providing patients with options that can improve their sleep, overall health and quality of life.
Patients who have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea and have difficulty using CPAP therapy can speak with their physician to determine whether Inspire therapy may be an appropriate treatment option.
Photo Caption: The Fatima Hospital team celebrates the hospital’s 100th Inspire procedure. From left: Alfred Tan, RN; John Tarro, MD; Shannon Celeste, BSN, RN, Director of Perioperative Services; Zachary Quay De La Vallee, MD; and Justin Frachetti, RN, Clinical Manager of Perioperative Services.