Medical technology company Respicardia announced the first commercial case of the company's sleep apnea system.
The case was completed at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center in Columbus.
The Remedē transvenous implantable neurostimulation system consists of a surgically placed battery pack and thin wires inserted into the chest. The system works by stimulating a patient's phrenic nerve, which engages the diaphragm and restores natural breathing during sleep, according to Respicardia.
There are two phrenic nerves, right and left. They start in the neck and run to the diaphragm. These nerves pass information to and from the diaphragm, playing a crucial role in breathing.
The company also announced the appointment of Peter Sommerness as CEO. Sommerness previously served with consulting firm McKinsey & Company and medical device company Boston Scientific.
