Saint Francis Hospital now offers Inspire Upper Airway Stimulation (UAS) therapy, a new method for alleviating obstructive sleep apnea without noisy bedside machines.

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway collapses during sleep and blocks the flow of oxygen to the brain. The condition affects 18 million Americans and can lead to complications such as worsening mood, workplace accidents, stroke and heart attack.

"Inspire therapy represents a significant advancement in treating sleep apnea," said Dr. Michael Polnerow, chief medical officer at Saint Francis Healthcare. "It is clinically proven to reduce sleep apnea events and also has a high level of patient satisfaction and therapy adherence."

UAS keeps the airway open during sleep through light stimulation, allowing for the natural flow of air.

"Those suffering from obstructive sleep apnea now have an alternative choice for treatment in Delaware," said Dan Sinnott, President and CEO of Saint Francis Healthcare. "Offering this care is yet another way we are growing to meet the community's needs and positioning ourselves to Become Delaware's Preferred Healthcare Provider."