King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia has performed the first robotic-assisted implantation of an artificial heart pump (HeartMate 3, Abbott).
The surgery was performed on a 35-year-old man who had been hospitalised for 120 days due to advanced heart failure, which had also led to kidney and lung function deterioration. Following the procedure, the patient is due to return home to his family, KFSHRC says in a press release.
The procedure was led by Feras Khaliel, head of cardiac surgery and director of the hospital’s Robotics and Minimally Invasive Surgery Program. The patient spent four days in the intensive care unit, in contrast to the 26-day average for similar procedures performed with traditional surgical methods, KFSHRC’s press release states. Recovery time is also expected to be significantly reduced, with discharge anticipated within 10 days instead of the usual 63 days required for conventional interventions.
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.”
Khaliel emphasised the precision and safety of robotic-assisted surgery, noting that 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.
“We are honoured 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,” said Keith Boettiger, VP for Abbott’s heart failure business. “This achievement aligns with Abbott’s commitment to empowering people to live healthier, fuller lives.”
