Experts from the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine presented groundbreaking research at SLEEP 2025, the 39th annual meeting of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, marking the 50th anniversary of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
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The Miller School’s sleep medicine team is utilizing advanced technologies, including Inspire® therapy and the remedē® System, to enhance sleep care for patients facing sleep disorders.
Dr. Alberto Ramos, M.D., M.S.P.H., professor of neurology and research director of the Sleep Disorders Program, emphasized the complexities of sleep and the importance of collaborative approaches in sleep medicine. "This meeting is crucial for sharing ideas and staying updated on the latest developments. Each aspect of sleep requires specialized expertise," he stated.
During SLEEP 2025, Dr. Ramos discussed the effects of sleep apnea on neuroimaging markers related to brain health. He highlighted findings showing that even patients whose sleep apnea is well managed can still experience significant daytime sleepiness, indicating potential underlying brain function issues.
Dr. Ramos attributes the Miller School’s successes in sleep research to significant investments in the field, which have transformed a single clinic into a multidisciplinary team incorporating various medical fields such as pediatrics and pulmonology.
The Miller School aims to become a leader in sleep disorder research and clinical practices. Dr. Ramos expressed hope that sleep medicine will be recognized as essential to healthcare, akin to nutrition and physical activity.
Dr. Maria Suurna, M.D., professor of clinical otolaryngology and director of sleep surgery, noted an increasing awareness among patients regarding their sleep patterns, aided by wearable devices. At SLEEP 2025, she participated in a course on neurostimulation technologies for treating obstructive and central sleep apnea, highlighting the use of FDA-approved devices like Inspire® therapy and the remedē® System.
“Our objective is to enhance accessibility and personalize sleep medicine for quicker, tailored diagnoses and treatments," Dr. Suurna remarked.
The necessity for a skilled workforce of sleep physicians is crucial for ongoing advancements in the field. Dr. Alexandre Rocha Abreu, M.D., associate professor in pulmonary, critical care, and sleep medicine, is addressing the physician shortage by mentoring new sleep specialists and enhancing fellowship programs nationwide.
Dr. Abreu noted that the Miller School has expanded its team by adding 12 new sleep providers over the last 15 years, extending patient care to UHealth satellite clinics.
Moreover, the Miller School's Center for Translational Sleep and Circadian Sciences made a significant impact at SLEEP 2025 with the presentation of 30 scientific posters, showcasing the breadth of their research contributions in the field.