Using laser therapy to improve treatment for obstructive sleep apnea
Official title: Phototherapy for Non-responders to Oral Appliance Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Run by University of Alberta · NCT06960200 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a cold laser therapy can help people with obstructive sleep apnea who haven't had enough success with their oral appliances feel better and breathe easier while they sleep.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 528 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Alberta Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Edmonton) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 5, 2024 |
| Main results expected | December 2030 |
| Study ends | December 2030 |
| Registry record updated | June 1, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06960200 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea who have not achieved satisfactory results from oral appliance therapy.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are not diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea or those currently using CPAP will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of phototherapy, specifically a cold laser technique, in enhancing the response of patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) who have not fully benefited from oral appliance therapy (OAT). The goal is to determine if this adjunctive treatment can convert incomplete responders into complete responders by significantly reducing their apnea-hypopnea index. Participants will undergo assessments including digital impressions and imaging to evaluate the impact of the therapy on their condition. The study aims to provide a non-invasive alternative for patients who struggle with standard treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a more effective treatment option for patients with obstructive sleep apnea who do not respond adequately to oral appliance therapy.
How similar studies have gone: While phototherapy for OSA is a relatively novel approach, preliminary evidence suggests potential benefits, though further validation is needed.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * diagnosed with OSA * incomplete treatment with OAT/MAD Exclusion Criteria: * not diagnosed with OSA * using CPAP
Where it's running
-
University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2E1
Edmonton, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Enoch Ng
- Email: enoch@ualberta.ca
- Phone: 780-407-5550
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.