Dr. Yin Shankai (殷善开) - Director of Otolaryngology at Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital

Introduction

Dr. Yin Shankai (殷善开) is the Director of the Department of Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Surgery at Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, and one of China's most distinguished otolaryngologists. With over 25 years of specialized experience, Dr. Yin is nationally recognized as a leading authority on snoring, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), pharyngeal diseases, and voice surgery. He is one of China's foremost experts in the surgical and non-surgical management of adult obstructive sleep apnea — a highly prevalent condition with serious cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurocognitive consequences that is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated. His comprehensive approach to sleep-disordered breathing, combined with his expertise in pharyngeal and laryngeal surgery, makes him a premier specialist for patients with snoring, sleep apnea, and voice disorders in Shanghai, including international patients and expatriates.

Academic Distinctions & Leadership

• Director, Department of Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Surgery, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
• Professor of Otolaryngology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
• Chief Physician, Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital
• Chairman, Sleep Medicine Group, Chinese Medical Association Otolaryngology Branch
• Vice Chairman, Otolaryngology Branch, Shanghai Medical Association
• Member, American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM)
• Member, European Respiratory Society (ERS), Sleep Disordered Breathing Group
• Member, Asian Pacific Society of Respirology (APSR), Sleep Section
• Member, International Surgical Sleep Society (ISSS)
• Editorial Board Member, multiple leading otolaryngology and sleep medicine journals
• Recipient, National Science and Technology Progress Award
• Recipient, Shanghai Science and Technology Award (multiple times)
• Recipient, Chinese Medical Science and Technology Award

Specializations & Expertise

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) — Comprehensive Management

• Comprehensive OSA evaluation — history, physical examination, Epworth Sleepiness Scale, STOP-BANG questionnaire
• Polysomnography (PSG) coordination and interpretation
• Home sleep apnea testing (HSAT) coordination
• Drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) for site-of-obstruction assessment
• Upper airway imaging (CT, MRI, cephalometry) for surgical planning
• CPAP therapy initiation and optimization
• Mandibular advancement device (MAD) referral and coordination
• Positional therapy for positional OSA
• Weight management counseling and referral
• Hypoglossal nerve stimulation (Inspire therapy) coordination for CPAP-intolerant patients

Surgical Treatment of OSA & Snoring

• Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) — the most widely performed surgical procedure for OSA
• Modified UPPP (expansion sphincter pharyngoplasty, lateral pharyngoplasty)
• Uvulopalatal flap (UPF) for snoring and mild OSA
• Soft palate radiofrequency ablation (Somnoplasty) for snoring and mild OSA
• Palatal implants (Pillar procedure) for snoring and mild OSA
• Tonsillectomy for tonsillar hypertrophy contributing to OSA
• Nasal surgery for nasal obstruction contributing to OSA (septoplasty, turbinate reduction, FESS)
• Tongue base reduction (radiofrequency, coblation) for tongue base obstruction
• Genioglossus advancement for tongue base obstruction
• Hyoid suspension for hypopharyngeal obstruction
• Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) coordination for skeletal OSA
• Multilevel surgery for multi-site upper airway obstruction
• Tracheostomy for severe, refractory OSA

Pharyngeal Diseases

• Chronic pharyngitis management (medical and surgical)
• Tonsillitis (recurrent and chronic) — tonsillectomy
• Peritonsillar abscess drainage and management
• Pharyngeal tumors (benign and malignant)
• Oropharyngeal cancer surgery
• Nasopharyngeal diseases
• Zenker's diverticulum (endoscopic and open repair)
• Pharyngeal stenosis management
• Dysphagia evaluation and management

Voice Surgery (Phonosurgery)

• Microlaryngoscopy for vocal cord lesions (polyps, nodules, cysts, Reinke's edema)
• CO2 laser microlaryngoscopy for vocal cord lesions and early laryngeal cancer
• Vocal cord injection augmentation for unilateral vocal cord paralysis
• Laryngeal framework surgery (thyroplasty) for vocal cord paralysis
• Spasmodic dysphonia — botulinum toxin injection
• Laryngeal papillomatosis management
• Vocal cord leukoplakia management
• Early laryngeal cancer — CO2 laser resection

General Otolaryngology

• Functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS)
• Nasal polyp surgery
• Septoplasty and turbinate reduction
• Thyroid and salivary gland surgery
• Neck mass evaluation and surgery
• Ear conditions (otitis media, hearing loss evaluation)

Clinical Excellence & Innovation

Dr. Yin has evaluated and treated thousands of patients with obstructive sleep apnea and snoring throughout his distinguished career, establishing himself as one of China's most experienced and authoritative sleep surgery specialists. His department at Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital is one of the highest-volume OSA centers in Shanghai, managing the full spectrum of sleep-disordered breathing with a comprehensive, evidence-based approach.

• National OSA Surgery Standards: As Chairman of the Sleep Medicine Group of the Chinese Medical Association Otolaryngology Branch, Dr. Yin has led the development and dissemination of national clinical guidelines and surgical standards for OSA management in China — shaping the quality of sleep surgery practice nationwide
• Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy (DISE): Pioneered the use of DISE in China for precise identification of the site(s) of upper airway obstruction during sleep, enabling individualized surgical planning rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. DISE allows the surgeon to observe the pattern of airway collapse under simulated sleep conditions and tailor the surgical procedure accordingly
• Multilevel Surgery: Developed expertise in multilevel surgical approaches for patients with obstruction at multiple sites (palate, tongue base, hypopharynx), achieving better outcomes than single-level surgery for complex OSA
• Modified UPPP Techniques: Extensive experience with modified UPPP techniques (expansion sphincter pharyngoplasty, lateral pharyngoplasty) that improve outcomes and reduce complications compared to traditional UPPP
• Comprehensive OSA Program: Built a comprehensive multidisciplinary OSA program at Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital integrating otolaryngology, pulmonology, cardiology, endocrinology, and sleep medicine for optimal patient management
• International Patient Program: Developed a dedicated program for international patients and expatriates with OSA, providing English-language evaluation and treatment within a high-volume specialized center

Research & Academic Contributions

Dr. Yin is a prolific researcher with over 200 peer-reviewed publications in leading Chinese and international otolaryngology and sleep medicine journals. His research focuses on:

• Obstructive sleep apnea — pathophysiology, diagnosis, and surgical treatment
• Drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) — technique and clinical utility
• UPPP and modified UPPP outcomes
• Multilevel surgery for OSA
• Tongue base surgery for OSA
• Cardiovascular consequences of OSA
• OSA and metabolic syndrome
• Voice surgery outcomes

He has been the principal investigator on multiple National Natural Science Foundation grants and national clinical research projects. Dr. Yin regularly presents at major international conferences including the International Surgical Sleep Society (ISSS) Annual Meeting, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) Annual Meeting, and the Chinese Medical Association Otolaryngology Annual Meeting.

Training & Education

As a professor at Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine and Chairman of the Sleep Medicine Group of the Chinese Medical Association Otolaryngology Branch, Dr. Yin is deeply committed to advancing sleep surgery education across China. He has trained hundreds of otolaryngologists in evidence-based OSA evaluation and surgical management through national training courses, workshops, and guideline development.

Hospital Affiliation

Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine
600 Yishan Road, Xuhui District, Shanghai 200233

The Department of Otolaryngology features:

• Dedicated sleep medicine center with polysomnography (PSG) and home sleep apnea testing (HSAT) capability
• Drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) suite for site-of-obstruction assessment
• Dedicated OSA surgical suite with radiofrequency, coblation, and laser systems
• Laryngeal microsurgery suite with CO2 laser and videostroboscopy
• CPAP titration and therapy management center
• Multidisciplinary OSA team (otolaryngology, pulmonology, cardiology, endocrinology, sleep medicine)
• Advanced imaging (CT upper airway, cephalometry, MRI)
• International patient services with English-speaking coordinators

Patient Care Philosophy

• Comprehensive OSA Assessment: Every patient receives a thorough evaluation including sleep study, DISE, and upper airway imaging before surgical planning — no one-size-fits-all approach
• Individualized Treatment: Surgical plan tailored to the specific site(s) and pattern of obstruction identified by DISE and imaging
• Non-Surgical Options First: CPAP, mandibular advancement devices, and positional therapy considered and optimized before surgery for appropriate patients
• Multilevel Thinking: Evaluates and addresses obstruction at all levels of the upper airway (nose, palate, tongue base, hypopharynx) for optimal outcomes
• Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Complex OSA cases managed with pulmonology, cardiology, and endocrinology for comprehensive care of comorbidities
• Evidence-Based Practice: Treatment decisions guided by the latest international guidelines (AASM, ERS) and Dr. Yin's own research
• Transparent Communication: Clear, honest communication about OSA severity, treatment options, expected outcomes, and the limitations of surgery
• Long-term Partnership: Committed to long-term follow-up and optimization of OSA treatment

Why Choose Dr. Yin Shankai?

• China's OSA Surgery Authority: Chairman of the Sleep Medicine Group of the Chinese Medical Association — the national leader in setting standards for OSA surgical management in China
• DISE Pioneer: One of China's earliest and most experienced practitioners of drug-induced sleep endoscopy for individualized OSA surgical planning
• Multilevel Surgery Expertise: Comprehensive multilevel surgical approach for complex OSA with obstruction at multiple sites
• Comprehensive OSA Program: Full spectrum from CPAP optimization to complex multilevel surgery within a multidisciplinary team
• Voice Surgery Expertise: Combined expertise in OSA surgery and phonosurgery — ideal for patients with both sleep and voice concerns
• International Patient Program: Dedicated program for international patients and expatriates with OSA
• Cost-Effective Excellence: OSA evaluation and surgery costs in Shanghai are typically 60-75% lower than in the US or Europe

Conditions Treated

Sleep-Disordered Breathing

• Obstructive sleep apnea (mild, moderate, severe)
• Primary snoring
• Upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS)
• CPAP-intolerant OSA
• Positional OSA
• OSA with obesity
• OSA with cardiovascular comorbidities (hypertension, atrial fibrillation, heart failure)
• OSA with metabolic syndrome and diabetes

Pharyngeal Conditions

• Tonsillar hypertrophy
• Recurrent and chronic tonsillitis
• Chronic pharyngitis
• Oropharyngeal cancer
• Zenker's diverticulum
• Dysphagia

Voice & Laryngeal Conditions

• Vocal cord polyps, nodules, and cysts
• Vocal cord paralysis
• Spasmodic dysphonia
• Vocal cord leukoplakia
• Early laryngeal cancer
• Laryngeal papillomatosis

International Patient Services

China Medical Concierge - Shanghai (CMCS) provides comprehensive support for international patients and expatriates seeking OSA and ENT care with Dr. Yin Shankai at Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital. We have particular experience supporting expatriates in Shanghai who have been diagnosed with OSA or are experiencing significant snoring and daytime sleepiness.

Pre-Treatment Support

• Medical Record Review: Review of your sleep study results, previous OSA treatment history, and clinical records
• Virtual Consultation: Video consultation with Dr. Yin's team to discuss your OSA severity, treatment history, and surgical options
• Sleep Study Coordination: Assistance with arranging polysomnography or home sleep apnea testing
• DISE Coordination: Arrangement of drug-induced sleep endoscopy for surgical planning
• Second Opinion: Expert second opinion on OSA management, particularly for CPAP-intolerant patients considering surgery
• Cost Transparency: Detailed cost estimate including evaluation, sleep study, DISE, surgery, and follow-up
• Visa Assistance: Guidance on obtaining medical visa and invitation letters if needed
• Accommodation: Help finding suitable housing near Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital

During Treatment

• Professional Medical Interpretation: Experienced interpreters for all medical interactions
• Hospital Admission Support: Assistance with registration, payment, and navigation
• Surgical Coordination: Communication with family during surgery
• Ward Support: Daily updates and interpretation during hospital stay
• Post-operative Care: Comprehensive support during recovery including pain management and dietary guidance after pharyngeal surgery
• 24/7 Emergency Support: Round-the-clock assistance throughout your stay

Post-Treatment Care

• Discharge Planning: Coordination of post-discharge care and follow-up sleep study schedule
• Medical Report Translation: Complete translation of surgical reports and discharge summaries
• Post-operative Sleep Study: Coordination of follow-up polysomnography to assess surgical outcomes
• Follow-up Coordination: Arrange post-operative clinic visits
• Telemedicine Follow-up: Virtual consultations for ongoing monitoring after returning home
• Coordination with Home Physicians: Communication with your local ENT specialist, sleep physician, or cardiologist
• Lifelong Support: Ongoing assistance for long-term OSA management

Schedule Your Consultation

If you or a loved one snores loudly, experiences daytime sleepiness, has been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea, or cannot tolerate CPAP therapy, Dr. Yin Shankai at Shanghai Sixth People's Hospital offers China's most comprehensive OSA surgical expertise, at a fraction of Western costs.

Contact China Medical Concierge - Shanghai today to:

• Request a review of your sleep study results and OSA treatment history
• Schedule a virtual consultation with Dr. Yin's sleep surgery team
• Arrange a comprehensive OSA evaluation including DISE for individualized surgical planning
• Receive a detailed treatment plan and cost estimate
• Start your journey toward better sleep and improved health in Shanghai

Bridging international patients with China's finest sleep surgery specialists — because obstructive sleep apnea is a serious medical condition, and you deserve the most expert, individualized surgical care.