Obstructive sleep apnoea

Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Care at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi

The Otolaryngology (ENT) division at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) delivers comprehensive, patient-centred care for disorders of the ear, nose, throat, head and neck.

Scope of Service

Our ENT service treats a wide range of conditions including (but not limited to):

• Head and neck cancer, thyroid and salivary gland disorders
• Nasal & sinus disease (including chronic sinusitis)
• Middle and inner ear disease, hearing loss and balance disorders
• Voice and swallowing disorders, obstructive sleep apnoea, paediatric airway disease (such as stridor)

Implantable Therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

SSMC now offers implantable hypoglossal nerve stimulation therapy for adults with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnoea who are unable to tolerate or continue positive airway pressure therapy.

This minimally invasive treatment involves placing a small implant under the chin to stimulate the hypoglossal nerve during sleep. Therapy is activated externally at night using a disposable adhesive patch and activation chip, which is rechargeable. The stimulation is synchronised with the patient’s natural breathing pattern to help maintain an open upper airway throughout the breathing cycle.

Care is delivered through a multidisciplinary pathway involving sleep medicine, otolaryngology and perioperative teams. Patients receive counselling on device use and guidance on incorporating therapy into their nightly routine.

Why Choose SSMC for ENT Care?

• World-class expertise: Certified otolaryngologists lead the service
• Advanced diagnostics and minimally invasive surgical techniques with state-of-the-art equipment
• A multidisciplinary model: collaboration across audiology, speech therapy, neurology, paediatric surgery and oncology

Patient-Centred Treatment Pathway

• Comprehensive assessment and diagnosis
• Individualised treatment plans combining medical, surgical and rehabilitative options
• Follow-up care to monitor outcomes and support recovery

Advice for Patients

If you have ear, nose or throat symptoms that persist, worsen or affect your hearing, breathing or swallowing, book a consultation with our ENT specialists at SSMC. Early intervention may improve your outcomes.