Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), a leading UAE hospital and member of the PureHealth network, has successfully utilized robotic surgery to treat a patient with severe complications from multiple gallstones and acute cholecystitis. This procedure marks a significant advancement in the hospital’s capability in minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgeries.
Dr. Salem Al Harthi, consultant and chair of the Surgery Department at SSMC, led the procedure. He described the process as a testament to the precision that robotic technology brings to surgical interventions. “Using the latest technologies in robotic-assisted surgery, I was able to perform precise surgical repair through extremely small incisions,” said Dr. Al Harthi. “This included the intricate anastomosis between the bile duct injury and the small bowel, facilitated by robotic magnification and precise instrument control, even under challenging anatomical conditions.”
The patient, a 30-year-old UAE national, had initially presented with clinical symptoms indicating a bile duct injury—a rare but serious complication. After confirming the diagnosis through CT scan and MRI, the surgical team proceeded with a robotic-assisted repair.
Dr. Abdulqader Almessabi, acting chief medical officer at SSMC, emphasized the broader implications of this success. “This milestone achievement underscores SSMC’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology, innovation, and expertise to provide world-class health care services,” he stated. “It highlights our position as a centre of excellence in the region, leading the way in next-generation, personalized care.”
The operation was declared a success, with the patient discharged just three days post-surgery without any further complications.
