M42’s Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Hospital Performs the First Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation Implant for Obstructive Sleep Apnea in the Northern Emirates

Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Hospital in Sharjah, part of M42’s global network of healthcare providers, has successfully performed the first hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS) implant for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) in the Northern Emirates, marking a significant medical milestone that reflects the hospital's commitment to introducing advanced treatment technologies and strengthening access to specialized healthcare services across the UAE.

The procedure was performed by Dr. Eyad Shitawi, Consultant ENT Surgeon, on a 44-year-old Emirati patient who had been living with obstructive sleep apnea for more than five years, significantly affecting his sleep quality and overall quality of life.

The surgery lasted approximately two hours, and the patient was discharged on the same day in a stable condition without significant postoperative pain. He will continue to receive routine follow-up care in accordance with the approved treatment protocol.

Obstructive sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep disorders worldwide. It occurs when the upper airway repeatedly becomes blocked during sleep, leading to interrupted breathing, reduced oxygen levels, and frequent awakenings throughout the night. If left untreated, the condition can increase the risk of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cardiac arrhythmias, stroke, diabetes, while also significantly affecting sleep quality, concentration, and daytime productivity.

Hypoglossal nerve stimulation is among the latest surgical treatment options for carefully selected patients with obstructive sleep apnea. The implanted device delivers gentle electrical stimulation to the hypoglossal nerve during sleep, preventing the tongue from collapsing backwards and helping keep the airway open. It offers an effective alternative for patients who are unable to tolerate Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, the conventional treatment for obstructive sleep apnea.

Dr. Eyad Shitawi, Consultant ENT Surgeon, said: "The introduction of hypoglossal nerve stimulation represents a significant advancement in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea, particularly for patients who are unable to tolerate CPAP therapy. This innovative technology helps restore natural breathing during sleep, improves patients' quality of life, and reduces the health complications associated with this condition."

M. T., the patient who underwent the procedure, said: "For years, I struggled with poor sleep and constant fatigue, and CPAP therapy simply wasn't the right solution for me. Since the procedure, I have already noticed a remarkable improvement in my sleep and overall wellbeing. I am grateful to Dr. Eyad Shitawi and the entire team at Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Hospital for giving me a new lease on life."

Dr. Imran Aslam, Medical Director at Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Hospital, added: "We are proud to perform the first procedure of its kind in the Northern Emirates, reflecting Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Hospital's commitment to adopting the latest medical innovations. This achievement forms part of our ongoing efforts to provide advanced treatment technologies and attract highly specialized medical expertise, ensuring our patients receive the highest standards of care within the UAE."

Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Hospital continues to invest in the latest medical technologies and expand its specialized clinical services, reinforcing its position as one of the UAE's leading healthcare providers. This commitment enables the hospital to broaden access to advanced treatment options and deliver world-class patient care in line with international best practices.

Part of the M42 Group, Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Hospital offers a comprehensive range of medical and surgical specialties. Patients have access to an integrated spectrum of services, including Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, General Surgery, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Gastroenterology, Psychiatry, Emergency Medicine, Pulmonology, and the Sleep Lab, in addition to numerous subspecialties designed to meet the diverse healthcare needs of patients.