First Robotic Kidney Transplant Successfully Performed by HMC in Qatar

Robotic Kidney Transplant

Hamad Medical Corporation recently accomplished Qatar's first robotic kidney transplant surgery for a patient in their seventies who had long suffered from chronic kidney failure, necessitating daily peritoneal dialysis and coping with other health issues such as high blood pressure.

The procedure occurred at Hamad General Hospital and was overseen by a specialized team in robotic surgery and organ transplantation led by Dr. Abdullah Al Ansari, Chief Medical Officer at HMC, and head of the surgical team. The team also included Dr. Omar Abu Marzouq, Senior Consultant in Robotic Surgery, and Deputy Head of the Surgical Research Department at HMC, along with Dr. Omar Ali, Senior Consultant in Organ Transplantation, and Deputy Head of the Organ Transplantation Department at HMC.

Dr. Abdullah Al Ansari detailed the extensive preparation for the surgery, involving a multidisciplinary team of experts at HMC, including specialists in robotic surgery, organ transplant, anesthesiology, nephrology, and nursing staff, alongside the patient's own preparation. The surgical procedure, utilizing the Da Vinci robot, was completed successfully within approximately two and a half hours. The new kidney was transplanted from a deceased brain-dead donor after thorough examinations and ensuring tissue compatibility, following necessary approvals from the donor's family.

Dr. Al Ansari underscored this surgical milestone as a result of substantial investments in Qatar's healthcare sector, aligning with international standards and advancements in medicine and surgery.

Dr. Omar Abu Marzouq noted the patient's swift recovery post-surgery, with the ability to walk just two days after the procedure, and gradual resumption of the transplanted kidney's normal function, with ongoing follow-ups with doctors. He highlighted the advantages of robotic surgery in reducing complications, shortening hospital stays, and promoting a quicker return to normal activities, while minimizing blood loss and aiding in speedy recovery and improved quality of life.

Dr. Omar Ali emphasized the precision and control offered by robotic surgery in kidney transplantation, including delicate manipulation of blood vessels and tissues, facilitated by a magnified, high-definition, three-dimensional view and robotic arms controlled by the surgeon. He also highlighted the benefits of smaller incisions, reducing damage to surrounding tissues and minimizing post-operative pain compared to traditional surgery.

Source: The Peninsula