New non-invasive electrical stimulation devices for treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea: a systematic review

Introduction Recently, new non-invasive electrical stimulation devices have been developed with the aim to increase the tongue muscle tone for patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and snorers. The aim of this study was to provide a review of the first results found in the literature regarding the efficacy of non-invasive electric stimulation devices for the treatment of primary snoring and OSA. Material and Methods An electronic search was performed on PubMed/MEDLINE, Google Scholar, and Ovid databases. The PRISMA statement was followed. Databases were searched from inception through September, 2021. Results Four studies met the criteria for inclusion in this review, for a total of 265 patients. Two devices were included in this review, Apone-Stim 400 Muscle Stimulator and eXciteOSA. All studies suggested that these new devices are effective in improving snoring by approximately 50% after device training, without major complications. However data regarding OSA improvement are conflicting. Conclusions Intraoral non-invasive electrical stimulation devices can be considered a valid option to current therapies for snoring. Further studies are needed to support these interesting new devices for treatment of OSA.