Saudi Arabia performs first-ever robotic heart surgery

Cardiac surgeons from the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (KFSHRC) made history with the world’s first robotic heart surgery.

Healthcare news website Cardiovascular Business reported they performed the procedure on a 16-year-old patient with end-stage heart failure.

READ: Robots are transforming medical education

The novel surgery represents a paradigm shift in cardiac care by demonstrating the effectiveness of robotic surgery in complex heart procedures. 

How did they conduct the robotic heart surgery?

Cardiovascular Business said that heart surgeon Feras Khaliel, MD, PhD, led the transplant. He briefed each member on the robotic heart surgery’s intricacies to ensure success. 

He prepared by practicing seven times over three days. Wired Middle East said the training involved a virtual simulation of the procedure. 

They chose the teenage patient because he requested the heart doctors not open his chest. Consequently, Dr. Khaliel and his team used a minimally invasive robotic technique. 

It replaced the heart without a chest incision, promoting faster recovery, lesser pain, and fewer complications. 

Jerusalem Post shared a statement from Dr. Khaliel after the successful robotic heart surgery:

“The success of the world’s first robotic heart transplant marks a transformative leap…” 

“…not only for our institution but also for Saudi Arabia’s journey toward global leadership in specialized medicine, in line with Saudi Vision 2030.” 

Saudi Vision 2030 refers to the nation’s long-term plan of becoming “a vibrant society, thriving economy, and an ambitious nation.” 

KFSHRC CEO Majid Al Fayyad lauded the robotic heart surgery and compared it to the first heart transplants from the 60s.

“This remarkable achievement would not have been possible without the unwavering support of our visionary leadership…”

“…who have prioritized the development of the healthcare sector, paving the way for a transformative leap in healthcare services…” 

“…unlocking new possibilities to elevate the quality of life for patients both locally and globally,” he added. 

Cardiovascular Business says the patient is recovering with no signs of significant complications.