RIYADH: The world’s first robotic-assisted implantation of an artificial heart pump has been carried out at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre in Riyadh.
The surgery was performed on a 35-year-old man who had been hospitalized for 120 days due to advanced heart failure, leading to deterioration of kidney and lung functions.
The ground-breaking procedure to implant the HeartMate 3, developed by Abbott, marks a significant advancement in medical technology and patient care.
It was led by Dr. Feras Khaliel, head of cardiac surgery and director of the hospital’s Robotics and Minimally Invasive Surgery Program.
The patient spent just four days in the intensive care unit, a stark contrast to the 26-day average for similar procedures performed using traditional methods. Recovery time is also expected to be significantly reduced, with discharge anticipated within 10 days instead of the usual 63.
Dr. Bjorn Zoega, deputy CEO of KFSHRC, said: “This milestone demonstrates our ability to balance bold innovation with strict safety measures, delivering cutting-edge medical solutions that redefine the possibilities in healthcare.”
He added it solidified the Kingdom’s position as a global leader in medical innovation.
Khaliel emphasized the precision and safety of robotic-assisted surgery, adding the patient experienced no infections or bleeding during or after the operation.
“The patient was amazed at the minimal scarring, reflecting the advanced capabilities of robotic technology,” he said.
Keith Boettiger, vice president of Abbott’s heart failure division, said: “We are honored to have partnered with KFSHRC in Saudi Arabia on this transformative initiative, with underscores the pivotal role of health technology in improving lives and enhancing health outcomes.”
This success builds on KFSHRC’s legacy of global achievements, including the world’s first fully robotic heart transplant and robotic liver transplantation.
