Bronson Leads Region with Next-Generation Inspire V Implant for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
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Dr. Orabi (left) and Dr. Szeles (right), and their teams celebrate their first Inspire V treatment.
Bronson otolaryngologists Dr. Steven Szeles and Dr. Norman Orabi recently became the first surgeons in Southwest Michigan to implant the Inspire V device, the newest implantable therapy for patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who cannot tolerate continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).
Inspire therapy is a small device placed under the skin that gently stimulates airway muscles during sleep, helping patients breathe naturally without a mask or hose. The Inspire V system improves on previous versions by eliminating one of the sensors used in earlier versions and adds enhanced programming features to improve comfort and simplify follow-up adjustments for both patients and clinicians.
Dr. Szeles has worked with Inspire therapy since its early clinical trials in 2011–2012, helping bring this treatment to patients in Southwest Michigan more than a decade ago. His early involvement and continuing experience have helped make Bronson a regional leader in surgical sleep health care.
“This advancement reflects the strong collaboration between our otolaryngologists and sleep health teams,” said Dr. Szeles. “It’s rewarding to see how far we’ve come and to know that our combined expertise continues to improve care for patients with sleep apnea.”
Following the first Inspire V procedure, Dr. Orabi also successfully performed an Inspire V implant.
“Many patients do well with CPAP, but some simply can’t tolerate it,” said Dr. Zachary Richens, sleep medicine specialist at Bronson. “Inspire therapy offers an alternative that can make a real difference for those individuals, and our team works closely with each patient to find the approach that fits their specific needs.”
These milestones demonstrate Bronson’s continued commitment to quality and collaboration between our sleep-health teams and follow national recognition for excellence in Inspire care. In 2025, Dr. Szeles and Dr. Richens were named Inspire Providers of Excellence by Inspire Medical Systems for their outcomes and expertise.
With the addition of Inspire V, Bronson strengthens its position as a leader in comprehensive sleep-health care for patients across Southwest Michigan.
Learn more about Inspire therapy.
