Variable Negative External Pressure (vNEP) - An Alternative to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): A Pilot Study

Variable Negative External Pressure (vNEP) - An Alternative to Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) for the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): A Pilot Study

Non-compliance rates estimated at 50% pose a major issue for CPAP therapy, the primary treatment for OSA. Negative external pressure, applied over the anterior neck under the mandible, has shown encouraging results as an alternative therapy. This study assessed a variety of sizes and shapes of collars and a range of pressures for variable negative external pressure (vNEP) treatment in subjects having moderate OSA to identify combinations that improve the efficacy and comfort of this emerging therapy.

Observations made in this study may be used to plan a more definitive follow-on investigation.

Inclusion Criteria:

• a polysomnogram study or home sleep test within the previous six months that shows either an AHI > 15 and AHI <= 30
• able, in the opinion of the investigator, to understand and comply with all study procedures
• the vNEP collar is determined by the investigator to properly fit the subject and is well-tolerated after application to the neck.