Intraoperative Identification and Stimulation of the Glossopharyngeal Nerve

Published data suggest that the glossopharyngeal nerve innervates pharyngeal musculature important for maintenance of upper airway patency. The investigators propose a study examining the anatomic variation of the glossopharyngeal nerve and the effect of electrical stimulation on muscle recruitment and upper airway patency.

Inclusion Criteria:Consenting adults with BMI ≥ 25 and ≤ 40 kg/m2Planned resection of parapharyngeal space (PPS) mass without clinical evidence of cranial nerve function deficits based on physical examinationHistory of moderate-to-severe OSA as confirmed by previous polysomnogram OR high risk for OSA based on STOP-BANG criteria (STOP-BANG score ≥ 3)Exclusion Criteria:Unable to consent for research due to a pre-existing neurologic condition or language barriers as determined by PIHistory of other primary sleep-related breathing disorder (e.g., central, or complex sleep apnea).Previous pharyngeal surgery excluding tonsillectomy (e.g. cleft palate repair, uvulopalatopharyngoplasty)Prior history of head and/or neck chemoradiation therapyExisting indwelling neurostimulation device (e.g. pacemaker; spinal, vagal, or hypoglossal nerve stimulator)