A new surgical procedure that claims to cure snoring has been snubbed by people suffering from the condition in Bahrain.
It was introduced by the Health Ministry at Salmaniya Medical Complex (SMC) in April.
But to date, not a single patient has come forward for treatment, said SMC ear nose and throat consultant Dr Lubna Janahi.
It is free for Bahrainis, while expatriates will have to pay BD150 for three plastic implants that are inserted in the mouth as part of the treatment.
“No one has come forward to undergo this simple surgical procedure, which takes about 30 minutes,” said Dr Janahi, who is also a neck and head surgeon.
“There are more men coming to us and complaining about their habitual snoring condition.
“But there is fear among them to go ahead with this treatment, once they are informed about the implants.”
Dr Janahi said there was a need to increase awareness among people that the treatment was safe and effective.
She said the procedure involved inserting three pieces of plastic implants designed to stiffen into the soft palate near where it meets the hard palate in the mouth.
“The results will be visible after 90 days,” she said.
“It is a safe procedure that can be done under local anaesthesia. In case a patient is not satisfied the implants can be removed.
The procedure is already conducted in several countries and prevents snoring caused by nasal blocks, excessive weight and enlargement of the tongue.
Dr Janahi said health workers in Bahrain had received training in the surgical process to carry out the procedure.
The anti-snoring treatment reduces the movement or vibration of the soft palate with implants designed to gradually adjust and get stronger.
SANDEEP SINGH GREWAL
Gulf Daily