First UK patients receive implant for sleep apnoea at Swindon hospital

Catherine Turnbull, one of the first UK patients fitted with a hypoglossal nerve stimulation device, says the treatment has ended her nighttime breathing interruptions.

• Turnbull was fitted with a hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HGNS) device after failing to tolerate a CPAP machine.
• Great Western Hospital in Swindon became one of five NHS trusts to offer the implanted treatment.
• Turnbull said the device stopped her waking during the night and eliminated her morning headaches.
• Joseph Sinnott, an ear, nose and throat surgeon at the hospital, said CPAP remains the first-line treatment and HGNS is a second option for extreme cases.