The Paediatric Neurology Department at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital Abu Dhabi is a specialised unit that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of neurological conditions affecting infants, children, and adolescents.

At the heart of paediatric neurology lies a dedication to unravelling the complexities of the developing nervous system while providing compassionate care tailored to young minds.

The human brain, particularly during childhood, undergoes remarkable growth and development, shaping the foundation for cognitive, emotional, and physical well-being. Paediatric neurology addresses a spectrum of conditions that influence this intricate system, including epilepsy, neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and ADHD, genetic neurological disorders, cerebral palsy, and neuromuscular conditions, among others.

At the Paediatric Neurology Department in Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital Abu Dhabi, our paediatric neurologists work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech therapists to provide the most comprehensive level of care for all patients to ensure holistic support for young patients and their families.

Services include:

Spasticity clinic for children with cerebral palsy

A specialised clinic focusing on the assessment and treatment of spasticity—a condition characterised by muscle stiffness and involuntary spasms, often seen in children with cerebral palsy. The clinic employs various therapies, medications, and interventions to manage and improve the quality of life for these children.

Management of childhood headaches

This involves the comprehensive evaluation and treatment of headaches in children. It includes identifying the underlying causes, which can range from stress to neurological conditions, and developing tailored management plans that may include medications, lifestyle adjustments, and behavioural therapies.

Learning disabilities

Specialised care dedicated to assessing, diagnosing, and supporting children facing challenges in learning, whether due to cognitive, developmental, or behavioural factors. The focus is on personalised strategies and interventions to help children overcome barriers to learning.

Neuro-developmental disorders

A field that addresses various conditions affecting a child's brain development, encompassing a range of disorders like autism spectrum disorder, ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder), and developmental delays. Diagnosis, early intervention, and ongoing management strategies are central in this area.

Neuro-metabolic and neuro-genetic disorders

Focusing on conditions stemming from abnormalities in metabolism or genetic makeup that affect the nervous system. It involves complex diagnostics, counselling families, and managing these disorders, often involving a multidisciplinary team of specialists.

Neuro-oncology (tumours)

Focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of brain tumours and related neurological complications. It involves collaborating with oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care to patients with brain tumours.

Neuro-muscular disorders (myopathies, myasthenia gravis etc.)

Specialised care for conditions affecting the muscles and neuromuscular junctions, encompassing a range of disorders like muscular dystrophies, myopathies, and autoimmune diseases such as myasthenia gravis. This includes diagnosis, treatment, and management of symptoms.

Neurocutaneous diseases (neurofibromatosis, tuberous sclerosis etc.)

Focuses on conditions that involve both the nervous system and the skin, such as neurofibromatosis and tuberous sclerosis. Diagnosis, management, and support for associated symptoms and complications are central in this area.

Neuropathy

Specialised care for peripheral nerve disorders, which can cause various symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness. Diagnosis, treatment, and management strategies are tailored to the specific neuropathic condition.

Spina bifida

A dedicated clinic addressing the complex needs of individuals with spina bifida—a congenital condition affecting the spinal cord and its development. The clinic focuses on multidisciplinary care, including surgical interventions, therapies, and support services for patients and families.

Diagnostic imaging of the brain, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerised tomography (CT), with the collaboration with the Department of Radiology.

Collaboration with the Department of Radiology for specialised imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerised tomography (CT) scans to aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of various neurological conditions, providing essential information for accurate treatment planning and monitoring.

Each of these specialised areas emphasises a multidisciplinary approach, involving various medical professionals and support staff to provide comprehensive care tailored to the specific needs of each patient.

The Paediatric Neurology Unit at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital Abu Dhabi offers comprehensive evaluation and treatment of disorders of the nervous system in children, especially children with epilepsy, including:

Daily neurological consultations

These consultations involve a neurologist assessing and managing patients with various neurological conditions, including epilepsy and seizure disorders. These sessions typically cover diagnosing conditions, reviewing treatment plans, and adjusting medications or therapies as needed.

Video/EEG monitoring

This is a diagnostic tool used to simultaneously record a patient's brain activity (EEG) and behaviour through video recording. It aids in identifying and analysing seizure activity and other neurological patterns over an extended period, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

EMU (EEG Monitoring Unit): Prolonged video EEG monitoring

The EMU refers to the specialised unit dedicated to prolonged video EEG monitoring, usually lasting 24 to 36 hours. This unit accommodates around four cases per month, providing a controlled environment for in-depth monitoring of seizure activity and neurological patterns.

Medical treatment as well as Ketogenic diet, valgus nerve stimulation for uncontrolled epileptic seizure disorders

In addition to traditional medical treatments for epilepsy, this includes alternative therapies like the Ketogenic diet, which is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet proven to help control seizures in some patients. Additionally, interventions like valgus nerve stimulation, a technique involving the use of implanted devices to manage seizures, might be utilised for uncontrolled seizure disorders.

Patient counselling

Patients and their families receive counselling and guidance regarding their condition, treatment options, lifestyle modifications, and coping strategies. This aims to empower patients to better manage their condition and improve their quality of life.

Emergency coverage

The facility offers around-the-clock coverage for neurological emergencies related to epilepsy and seizure disorders. This ensures immediate access to specialised care in case of urgent situations or exacerbation of symptoms.

These services collectively aim to provide comprehensive care for patients with epilepsy and seizure disorders, encompassing diagnosis, monitoring, various treatment modalities, ongoing support, and emergency intervention when necessary.

 

Contact us today to learn more about our paediatric neurology services at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital Abu Dhabi.