Thursday 20 / February / 2025
Saudi German Hospital Dubai achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first medical institution in the Middle East and Africa to introduce the Genio®️ Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation (HGNS) system for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). This revolutionary, minimally invasive therapy provided an advanced alternative to CPAP machines, which many patients found uncomfortable.
"This marks a major leap forward in sleep medicine. Genio is not only an alternative to CPAP but a more effective, comfortable, and long-term solution for OSA patients," said Dr. Ahmed Yassin Bahgat, Head of ENT Department at Saudi German Hospital Dubai.
The Challenge of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
OSA, a serious sleep disorder affecting millions worldwide, significantly increased the risk of cardiovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, and even mortality. Traditional treatments, such as CPAP, suffered from low patient adherence due to discomfort. However, HGNS therapy had transformed OSA management in the U.S. and Europe for over a decade, offering a more natural and effective solution by stimulating the hypoglossal nerve to maintain an open airway during sleep.
Introducing the Genio System
For the first time in the UAE and the Middle East, Saudi German Hospital Dubai brought the latest evolution in HGNS therapy—the Genio system by Nyxoah, the world's first and only bilateral hypoglossal nerve stimulation technology. Unlike traditional unilateral nerve stimulators, Genio provided more balanced and effective airway control with enhanced patient comfort.
The First Successful Genio Implant Surgery
On February 16, 2025, Dr. Ahmed Yassin Bahgat successfully performed the first-ever Genio implant procedure in the Middle East and Africa on an Emirati patient, Mr. Muhammad Alshehi. The one-hour procedure utilized minimally invasive techniques.
“This surgery has given me hope—I’m excited to regain my energy and get back to doing the things I love," said Mr. Alshehi. He had been struggling with severe daytime fatigue, poor concentration, and a diminished quality of life due to OSA. The condition had impacted his work, relationships, and overall wellbeing. Mr. Alshehi is now looking forward to a better quality of sleep and an improvement in his overall health and daily functioning.
Why Genio®️ is a Game-Changer?
The Genio system set a new standard in sleep apnea treatment, offering UAE patients:
- First & Only Bilateral HGNS: Provided more comprehensive and effective airway control.
- Higher Patient Comfort & Compliance: Designed to be minimally invasive, battery-free, leadless, and ensuring superior patient adherence.
- MRI Compatibility: Safe for full-body MRI scans up to 3 Tesla.
- Upgradability: The system could be easily updated with the latest advancements in stimulation and comfort.
- Reduction in Comorbidities & Mortality: Effective management of sleep apnea lowered the risk of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Improved sleep led to better daily performance, mood, and overall health.
A Milestone in Sleep Medicine for the Middle East
Dr. Ahmed Eissa, Group CEO of Saudi German Hospital UAE, emphasized the hospital’s commitment to medical innovation: “By pioneering this technology, we are setting new standards in sleep medicine and reaffirming our commitment to delivering world-class healthcare solutions."
Looking Forward Olivier Taelman, CEO of Nyxoah highlighted the significance of this milestone: “We are honored to collaborate with Saudi German Hospital Dubai in bringing Genio to the Middle East and Africa. The first successful implantation marks the beginning of a new era in sleep apnea treatment in the region."
With 21% of adults in the UAE at high risk for OSA, the availability of Genio at Saudi German Hospital Dubai was a significant milestone in addressing this widespread condition. As the first hospital in the region to offer the Genio implant, SGH Dubai stood at the forefront of revolutionizing sleep apnea care in the Middle East.
https://saudigerman.com/dubai/
