General Otorhinolaryngology & Sleep Medicine

Montefiore Einstein’s General Otorhinolaryngology and Sleep Medicine teams are recognized as leaders in general ear, nose and throat care as well as managing complex sleep disorders. Our specialists provide comprehensive care for conditions ranging from nasal obstructions and sinus infections to obstructive sleep apnea, snoring and sleep problems in both adults and children. We ensure effective, minimally invasive treatments with shorter recovery times and excellent outcomes. We’re ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for ear, nose, and throat care, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Our multidisciplinary sleep medicine team works closely with Montefiore Einstein Neurology to provide patient-centered care for the full range of sleep disorders tailored to the unique needs of each patient. As one of the highest-volume centers in New York State, our team has extensive experience with innovative treatments such as hypoglossal nerve implants and other surgical interventions. We were among the first to participate in the pivotal clinical trial leading to the approval of the Inspire® upper airway stimulation system by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and our team performed the first pediatric hypoglossal nerve implant in the tri-state area. This breakthrough surgery, for a patient with Down syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), highlights our commitment to innovative and personalized care.

Screening is the essential first step in diagnosing sleep disorders and creating an effective treatment plan. Montefiore Einstein’s sleep specialists use advanced assessments to diagnose conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea, upper airway resistance syndrome and snoring. We begin each evaluation with a thorough review of each patient’s sleep history, lifestyle and health profile to identify symptoms and risk factors that contribute to sleep disturbances. Based on these factors, we may recommend an overnight sleep study to monitor brain activity, oxygen levels, heart rate, breathing and body movements. For those who prefer a more convenient option, our at-home sleep apnea test measures key indicators like breathing and oxygen levels from the comfort of home. Additionally, for narcolepsy, we offer a daytime sleep test, also known as a multiple sleep latency test, which evaluates how quickly and deeply a patient falls asleep during the day. 

Montefiore Einstein’s team will develop a highly personalized treatment plan for each patient. These treatments range from nonsurgical options, such as continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) therapy and custom oral appliances for sleep apnea, to advanced surgical procedures. When surgery is required, our specialists use the latest techniques to improve airflow and breathing.

• Hypoglossal nerve stimulation: a minimally invasive surgical implant procedure that offers an effective long-term solution for treating OSA, serving as an alternative to CPAP
• Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) and palatal advancement surgery: a surgical option for addressing snoring and airway obstruction by removing or reshaping the palate
• Epiglottoplasty: a surgical procedure that modifies the shape of the epiglottis
• Tonsillectomy: partial or complete removal of enlarged tonsils to open up space for breathing
• Adenoidectomy: partial or complete removal of the adenoid glands to open up space for breathing
• Nasal surgery: surgical procedures that address the septum and turbinates in the nose

The team at Montefiore Einstein has been conducting important research to find more effective treatments for general ear, nose and throat and sleep disorders. Our studies investigate how anatomical differences in the nose, sinuses and airway affect sleep. We were among the first to participate in the pivotal clinical trial that led to the FDA approval of the Inspire® upper airway stimulation system. By engaging in research, we aim to turn discoveries into treatments available for our patients.

General otorhinolaryngology encompasses a range of conditions that affect the ears, nose, and throat. Common issues include infections of the ears, nose and throat, swallowing difficulties, chronic cough, tonsillitis, small growths, nasal obstruction and more. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing conditions and improving overall well-being. 

Sleep disorders encompass a range of conditions that affect an individual’s ability to achieve restful, restorative sleep. Common issues include obstructive sleep apnea, snoring, upper airway resistance syndrome and nasal congestion, each of which can disrupt breathing and lead to poor sleep quality. Left untreated, sleep disorders can impact overall health, increasing the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, mood disorders and daytime fatigue. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing these conditions and improving both sleep quality and general well-being.