Founded in 1979, the Antwerp Multidisciplinary Sleep Disorders Centre at the Antwerp University Hospital (UZA) has established itself as one of Europe's leading institutions dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of sleep-wake disorders. With a significant capacity of 21 beds, including 16 for adult and 5 for pediatric sleep studies, the center operates seven days a week to accommodate a high volume of patients. This commitment to accessibility is further demonstrated by their adoption of ambulatory polygraphy, or home sleep apnea testing (HSAT), which offers patients a more convenient diagnostic option.
The center's core mission is to provide optimal, patient-centered care through a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach. A team of highly specialized physicians, including psychiatrists, neurologists, pneumologists, otolaryngologists (ENTs), and pediatricians, collaborates to address the multifaceted nature of sleep disorders. This integrated expertise ensures that each patient receives a tailored treatment plan that considers all contributing factors to their condition. As an academic and multidisciplinary department, the center holds a prominent position in healthcare, scientific research, and training, and is recognized as an innovative quality organization with an excellent reputation, a powerful network, and enthusiastic employees.
Specializing in the assessment and treatment of Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB), the center initiates over 1,000 new patients on therapy each year and manages a cohort of more than 6,000 patients on various ventilation modes. Their approach to sleep apnea treatment is particularly noteworthy, encompassing a wide range of therapies from traditional CPAP to innovative solutions like oral appliance therapy, as evidenced by their participation in studies such as the FLOSAT trial with ProSomnus. This dedication to research and innovation ensures that patients have access to the most advanced and effective treatment options available.
The facility is located in the modern Drie Eiken building on the UZA campus, providing a comfortable and state-of-the-art environment for sleep studies. The center's commitment to excellence is also reflected in its team of dedicated professionals, led by Medical Coordinator Prof. Dr. Johan Verbraecken. From the administrative staff to the medical and paramedical teams, every member is committed to providing the highest quality of care and ensuring a positive patient experience. The center's robust research activities, including collaborations with international partners, further solidify its position as a center of excellence in the field of sleep medicine.
