Genio Therapy for Sleep Apnea

Genio therapy is an implantable, mask-free treatment option for adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea who are unable to tolerate or benefit from CPAP or other standard treatments. The Genio system works by gently stimulating the hypoglossal nerve on both sides of the tongue during sleep. This stimulation helps the tongue muscles contract and keeps the airway open throughout the night.

Unlike some implantable sleep apnea devices, the Genio system uses a battery-free implanted stimulator. The small stimulator is placed under the chin during a one-time outpatient surgical procedure. At night, patients wear a small external sleep wearable under the chin, which powers and activates the implant while they sleep.

Genio therapy is activated after the implant has healed. Once activated, therapy settings can be adjusted within a prescribed range, and patients may be able to track device usage through an optional smartphone app.

Am I a Candidate for Genio Therapy?

Adults may qualify for this therapy if you:

• Are 22 years of age or older
• Have moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea
• Have a recent sleep study showing an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) between 15 and 65
• Are unable to tolerate, have failed, or are not eligible for standard medical treatments for sleep apnea including positive airway pressure therapy (CPAP)
• Have a body mass index, or BMI, that is less than 32

Your doctor will review your sleep study, medical history, prior sleep apnea treatments, airway anatomy, and overall health to determine whether Genio therapy may be right for you.

How Genio Therapy Works

The Genio system includes two main parts:

• A small implanted stimulator, placed under the chin during outpatient surgery
• A sleep wearable, worn under the chin during sleep, that powers the implanted stimulator

The wearable includes an external activation chip and disposable patch. The activation chip is charged daily using a small portable charger and can be used at home or while traveling.

Genio therapy does not require a CPAP mask. It is designed to treat obstructive sleep apnea by helping maintain an open airway during sleep.

Schedule a Consultation

You can call 646-317-3176 or email sleepsurgery@cumc.columbia.edu to book an appointment with Yi Cai, MD, Director of Sleep Surgery at Columbia. We have office locations across Manhattan and in Westchester.

For safety information and instructions for use, visit geniosleep.com/safety.