Each night, millions of French people suffer without knowing a disorder that weakens their health and disrupts their daily lives: sleep apnea. This phenomenon, marked by repeated respiratory judgments during rest, often remains ignored despite its serious consequences, such as hypertension or cardiovascular disease. Faced with the limits of traditional treatments, a recent medical advance could change the situation. An innovative system, now reimbursed in France, promises to significantly improve the quality of life of the patients concerned.
An unknown pathology but with serious consequences
Sleep apnea is a respiratory disorder that affects approximately 4 million French people, or almost 5% of the population. This pathology, also called obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (Sahos), is characterized by involuntary and repeated stops of breathing during rest. These breaks generally last between 10 and 30 seconds, but can sometimes be extended. They cause micro-acknowledges that alter the quality of sleep and cause chronic fatigue.
The consequences are not limited to diurnal drowsiness. Sleep apnea significantly increases the risks of cardiovascular disease, such as strokes, infarction or hypertension. The neurologist Christophe Petiau, sleep specialist at the Sainte-Barbe clinic, specifies that “sleep apnea, when it is severe, is considered a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, in the same way as tobacco or cholesterol ”, Quoted by Franceinfo.
However, 50% of patients ignore their condition and do not consult, attributing their symptoms to a temporary fatigue.
A medical innovation long hampered by its cost
To treat this pathology, health professionals prescribe continuous positive pressure (PPC) as a priority. This device, which propels air by a mask during the night, remains the most widespread solution. But there are many constraints: skin irritation, respiratory discomfort and discomfort. According to Christophe Petiau, almost 50% of patients abandon this treatment after three years of use.
Faced with these difficulties, an alternative now exists. This is the hypoglosse nerve stimulator, also called XII stimulator. This small device, comparable to a pacemaker, is located under the skin at the thorax. Its functioning is based on stimulation of the hypoglosse nerve, responsible for language movements. During each inspiration, the stimulator activates this nerve, causing a slight contraction which maintains the open respiratory tract. This process limits respiratory interruptions and improves sleep quality.
The technique, developed for 20 years in the United States, was until recently not very accessible in France due to its high cost of around 20,000 euros according to digital. In July 2024, health insurance decided to take care of this intervention for eligible patients, thus facilitating its development in the territory.
An intervention still limited and reserved for certain patients
On January 15, 2025, the Sainte-Barbe clinic carried out its ninth implantation of stimulator XII. This surgical intervention lasts approximately 2:30 and requires specific skills. Doctors Denis Briche and Amina Ganeval, having undergone training in Germany, are among the rare specialists capable of practicing this operation in France. Other medical centers, such as the Bordeaux University Hospital and the Marseille Laveran military hospital, have also integrated this technique into their protocols.
However, this intervention is not intended for all patients with sleep apnea. It is reserved for those fulfilling specific criteria:
- A diagnosis established for more than a year.
- A BMI less than 32.
- A failure of traditional treatments, be it the PPC mask or the mandibular gutters.
Eligible patients can activate and adjust the device thanks to a remote control provided after the operation. This system allows you to personalize stimulation according to individual needs.
Evolution prospects thanks to technological advances
In addition to the surgical implant, new detection and follow -up solutions appear on the market. In January 2025, during the CES in Las Vegas, a French company presented Apneal, a mobile application to detect sleep apnea signs using only the sensors of a smartphone. At the same time, the latest Apple Watch Series 10 and Ultra 2 now incorporate a monitoring function for nocturnal respiratory disturbances.
These technological advances, associated with the development of XII stimulator surgery, open the way to more complete and better suitable management of patients.
Today, 85,000 people worldwide already benefit from this technology. In France, demand gradually increases, testifying to the growing interest in this new therapeutic approach.
With an unwavering passion for local news, Christopher leads our editorial team with integrity and dedication. With over 20 years’ experience, he is the backbone of Wouldsayso, ensuring that we stay true to our mission to inform.
