Snoring and Sleep Apnoea Unit

The Snoring and Sleep Apnoea Unit at the Publio Cordón Memorial Hospital is a highly specialised department dedicated to the diagnosis and medical and surgical treatment of sleep-related breathing disorders.

It addresses chronic snoring, obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and other conditions related to the collapse of the upper airway during night-time rest. When sleep ceases to be restorative and breathing pauses, daytime sleepiness or associated cardiovascular complications arise, it is essential to establish an accurate diagnosis and define a structured treatment plan.

Obstructive sleep apnoea can increase the risk of high blood pressure, arrhythmias, cognitive decline and accidents related to drowsiness. Its management requires the precise identification of the anatomical and functional pattern of the obstruction.

When to seek advice about snoring or sleep apnoea

The assessment is aimed at people with persistent, severe snoring, breathing pauses observed during sleep, frequent awakenings, daytime tiredness or difficulty concentrating.

Patients who are intolerant to CPAP or for whom previous treatments have been insufficient are also assessed.

The initial aim is to confirm the diagnosis, classify the severity and determine the exact extent of upper airway collapse.

Functional sleep study

Diagnosis involves respiratory polygraphy or polysomnography, depending on the clinical indication and the patient’s profile.

When surgical treatment is being considered, a sleep-induced endoscopy (DISE) is performed, which allows real-time observation of the dynamic behaviour of the airway and precise localisation of the level of obstruction.

The information obtained guides treatment planning, distinguishing between palatal, lingual or multi-level obstruction.

Personalised medical and surgical treatment

Treatment may include conservative measures, mandibular advancement devices or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy where indicated.

In selected cases, surgical techniques aimed at widening or stabilising the upper airway are considered, such as lateral expansion pharyngoplasty or tongue base surgery for complex obstructions.

The therapeutic aim is to reduce the apnoea index, improve nocturnal oxygenation and promote restorative sleep, thereby having a positive impact on cardiovascular and cognitive health.

Structured clinical follow-up

Once treatment has begun, regular clinical check-ups are scheduled and, where appropriate, follow-up sleep studies are carried out to assess efficacy.

This follow-up enables devices to be adjusted, surgical outcomes to be optimised and the persistence of respiratory events to be detected.

Team specialising in sleep apnoea

The unit comprises ENT specialists with a specific focus on the functional diagnosis and surgical treatment of the upper airway.

During consultations, the diagnosis, the severity of the condition and the available treatment options are clearly explained. Expected benefits, limitations and possible side effects are discussed before any treatment is started.

Decision-making is a shared process, particularly when surgery is being considered. Coordination with Pulmonology and other specialities enables us to offer a comprehensive approach and continuity of care.

Clinical support is provided from the initial assessment through to long-term follow-up, ensuring monitoring of progress and therapeutic stability.

The unit combines accurate functional diagnosis, personalised planning and advanced medical and surgical techniques for the safe management of respiratory sleep disorders.