Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway/UAMS First in Arkansas To Utilize Genio® System for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

CONWAY, Ark. –  Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway has become the first hospital in Arkansas to successfully perform a procedure using the Genio® system for moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Performed by Dr. Patrick L. Fraley, a University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Otolaryngologist/Head and Neck Surgeon practicing at BHMC-Conway, this landmark case marks a significant advancement in the treatment of OSA, particularly for patients who cannot tolerate or do not benefit from standard therapies like Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP).

The Genio system for OSA:

• Keeps Airways Open: It uses a small, implanted device to gently stimulate the nerves that control your tongue (the hypoglossal nerves). This stimulation keeps your airway from collapsing while you sleep, which is the main cause of sleep apnea.
• Is Effective on Your Back: Many sleep apnea devices struggle to work when a patient is sleeping on their back, which is often when symptoms are at their worst. The Genio system is uniquely proven to be effective in this position.
• Has a Simple Setup: It is a battery-free implant that is placed during a single, straightforward outpatient procedure and is powered by a small device you wear externally.

"Moderate-to-severe OSA impacts nearly half a billion people globally and has been linked to serious health conditions, including cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline," said Dr. Fraley. "By improving oxygen flow and reducing nighttime awakenings, especially in the challenging laid-back position, the Genio device has the potential to significantly enhance patients’ quality of life."

The introduction of the Genio system at Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway reflects the healing ministry’s dedication to expanding treatment options and improving outcomes for patients suffering from sleep-related breathing disorders.

For more information about this technology and all of the services provided at Baptist Health Medical Center-Conway, visit Baptist-Health.org.

About Baptist Health

Baptist Health, Arkansas' most comprehensive health care organization, has provided high-quality care rooted in Christian compassion and innovation for over a century. As the state's largest private not-for-profit health system, Baptist Health is here For You. For Life. With more than 300 points of access, our extensive network includes 14 hospitals, over 75 primary and specialty care clinics, urgent care centers, a senior living community, and educational programs, including a college for nursing and allied health studies and a graduate residency program. Supported by approximately 12,000 employees and renowned physicians, we deliver groundbreaking treatments and impactful community outreach programs. Baptist Health is proud to be certified as a Great Place to Work and was recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Most Admired Workplaces in 2026. To learn more, visit Baptist-Health.org, call Baptist Health HealthLine at 1-888-BAPTIST or download the myBaptistHealth app. Stay connected with us on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram.