Specialised medicine and health tourism find a distinctive environment in Andorra, where discretion, accessibility and quality of life meet internationally trained medical expertise.
We are two ENT surgeons — Dr Volkert B. Wreesmann MD PhD and Dr Karin P.Q. Oomen MD PhD — specialising in Adult and Paediatric ENT, Facial Plastic Surgery and Head & Neck Surgery.
Having trained and worked in leading academic hospitals in both the United Kingdom and the United States, we combine two complementary strengths: the structured clinical governance and guideline-based rigor associated with the UK system, and the innovation-driven, technology-forward culture of US academic medicine.
This combination allows us to deliver highly specialised, patient-centred care in Andorra, Spain and the UK, grounded in evidence-based protocols while responsibly integrating cutting-edge techniques and emerging therapies.
What makes your PRP programme for smell loss stand out?
Our PRP (platelet-rich plasma) programme for smell loss reflects a regenerative medicine approach that has developed primarily within US academic environments and remains available in only a limited number of specialised centres in Europe.
Every patient undergoes a structured and comprehensive assessment, including detailed history, validated quantitative smell testing and high-definition nasal endoscopy. We carefully evaluate inflammatory, structural or neurological contributors before considering regenerative treatment.
Platelet-rich plasma, derived from the patient’s own blood, contains concentrated growth factors that may stimulate repair of the olfactory epithelium in selected cases of post-viral, post-traumatic or idiopathic smell dysfunction.
The strength of our programme lies in:
- Careful patient selection based on objective testing
- Integration into a broader structured treatment pathway
- Systematic outcome monitoring
- Clear counselling regarding realistic expectations
Olfactory PRP is not widely implemented across Europe. It requires specific expertise in smell diagnostics, regenerative techniques and careful case selection. The influence of US medical innovation — where translational research and regenerative strategies are evaluated and integrated earlier — has been instrumental in shaping our approach.
We incorporate innovation responsibly, balancing scientific advancement with patient safety and evidence-based standards.
Is smell loss becoming more common?
Yes. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, persistent olfactory dysfunction has increased significantly worldwide.
In addition to post-viral cases, smell loss is associated with ageing, chronic sinus disease, head trauma and certain neurological conditions.
Historically, olfaction received limited attention in routine ENT practice. However, increasing research — particularly within US institutions — has highlighted its importance for nutrition, safety and psychological wellbeing.
As awareness grows, patients are actively seeking specialised evaluation and advanced management options rather than accepting smell loss as permanent.
What type of patients are usually interested in this treatment?
Patients most commonly seeking PRP are those with persistent smell dysfunction lasting longer than three to six months despite conventional therapy.
We also see:
- Professionals whose careers depend on olfaction
- Patients with significant quality-of-life impact
- Individuals seeking access to regenerative approaches not broadly available in Europe
Because only a limited number of clinics in Europe currently offer structured olfactory PRP programmes, patients are often willing to travel for evaluation and treatment.
Our role is to provide structured assessment, realistic expectations and measurable follow-up rather than presenting PRP as a universal solution.
What advantages does Transnasal Oesophagogastroscopy (TNE) offer over other techniques?
Transnasal Oesophagogastroscopy (TNE) represents a shift toward minimally invasive, sedation-free diagnostics. While widely used in certain US centres, it remains available in relatively few clinics across Europe, particularly within ENT-led practice.
Using an ultrathin flexible endoscope inserted through the nasal passage, TNE allows examination of the oesophagus and stomach without intravenous sedation.
Key advantages include:
- No general anaesthesia
- Reduced cardiopulmonary risk
- Immediate recovery
- Same-day return to normal activities
- High-resolution visualisation of the larynx and oesophageal mucosa
- Real-time communication with the patient
TNE aligns with modern procedural philosophy: maintaining diagnostic accuracy while reducing procedural burden and risk.
In appropriate patients, it offers comparable diagnostic value to conventional sedated endoscopy, with significantly greater convenience and safety.
What type of patient would you particularly recommend TNE for?
TNE is especially suited for patients with:
- Chronic reflux symptoms
- Laryngopharyngeal reflux
- Persistent throat clearing or chronic cough
- Dysphagia
- Globus sensation
It is ideal for individuals wishing to avoid sedation, those with medical contraindications to anaesthesia, or professionals requiring minimal downtime.
Because TNE is not yet routinely available in many European centres, patients often seek it specifically as a less invasive alternative to conventional endoscopy.
What role does a second medical opinion play in your practice?
Second opinions are central to high-level Head & Neck practice.
In both UK and US academic systems, multidisciplinary tumour boards and peer review are standard. These structures reduce bias, improve safety and ensure alignment with current international guidelines.
We provide structured second opinions in:
- Head & Neck cancer
- Thyroid and parathyroid surgery
- Advanced sinus surgery
- Functional nasal surgery
- Complex paediatric ENT cases
The combination of UK governance discipline and US innovation culture allows us to evaluate cases both conservatively and creatively — applying established protocols while remaining open to advanced surgical or technological options when appropriate.
A second opinion offers clarity and confidence in decision-making, particularly in complex or high-stakes cases.
What motivated you to establish your practice in Andorra?
We were motivated by the opportunity to combine international-level subspecialty expertise with a focused, patient-centred environment.
We are two ENT surgeons — Dr Volkert B. Wreesmann MD PhD and Dr Karin P.Q. Oomen MD PhD — practising Adult and Paediatric ENT, Facial Plastic Surgery and Head & Neck Surgery across Andorra, Spain and the United Kingdom.
UK and US medical training offer complementary strengths.
From the UK system:
- Structured clinical governance
- Strong adherence to guidelines
- Measured, protocol-driven care
- Clear safety frameworks
From the US system:
- Culture of medical innovation
- Early adoption of advanced technologies
- Integration of translational research into practice
- Subspecialty depth
- Flexibility in implementing new techniques
US innovation is a strategic asset. It fosters technological integration, encourages critical thinking and supports responsible implementation of regenerative therapies and minimally invasive diagnostics — such as olfactory PRP and TNE — that are not yet widely available in Europe.
Andorra provides a stable, discreet and internationally accessible setting where this high-level, innovation-driven yet disciplined model of care can flourish.
How do you see the future of medical tourism in Andorra?
Andorra is well positioned to become a premium European destination for specialised medical care.
Its strengths include:
- Political stability and safety
- Discretion and privacy
- Modern infrastructure
- High quality of life
- Accessibility from major European cities
When combined with internationally trained specialists and selective access to advanced techniques not broadly available elsewhere in Europe, Andorra can offer a distinctive value proposition.
Patients increasingly seek:
- Technical excellence
- Evidence-based care
- Access to innovation
- Minimal disruption to daily life
- Clear and transparent communication
In ENT, Facial Plastic Surgery and Head & Neck Surgery, Andorra has the potential to offer a highly specialised, internationally aligned and innovation-forward model of care within a uniquely calm and personalised environment.
Specialised medicine with international experience in Andorra
Dr. Wreesmann treats pathologies of the ears, nose, sinuses, mouth, throat, voice, respiratory tract and swallowing system, as well as diseases of the salivary glands and (para)thyroid glands. His practice also includes plastic and reconstructive surgery of the head and neck region.
He has built his professional career in internationally renowned hospitals in the United States and the United Kingdom, enabling him to bring an expert perspective to complex cases. This experience qualifies him to offer second medical opinions.
Based in Andorra since 2022, he is committed to personalised, precise and patient-centred medicine. He treats local and international patients in Dutch, English, German and Spanish, reinforcing Andorra’s position as a health and wellness tourism destination.
Find out about the medical treatments offered by Dr Wreesmann through Andorra Health Destination.