Abu Dhabi Performs Region’s First Robotic Lung Transplant
Abu Dhabi has achieved a major medical milestone with the successful completion of the region’s first robotic lung transplant. The pioneering procedure was performed at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, establishing the hospital as one of only five centers worldwide known to have accomplished such a complex robotic surgery.
This groundbreaking operation involved the transplantation of lungs into two patients using advanced robotic technology, representing a significant leap forward in the region’s surgical capabilities and offering new hope for patients suffering from severe lung diseases.
Both patients suffered from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis accompanied by secondary pulmonary hypertension – a progressive condition that causes lung scarring and severely impedes breathing. The surgeries were particularly complex due to the pulmonary hypertension, which places additional strain on both the heart and lungs.
To support the patients throughout the critical procedure, the surgical team employed Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) technology. This system temporarily took over the function of the heart and lungs while the damaged organs were being replaced.
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi emphasized the crucial collaboration that made this achievement possible, acknowledging the vital contributions of medical teams from donor hospitals, the UAE’s National Program for Donation and Transplantation (HAYAT), the Abu Dhabi Department of Health, and the National Center at the Ministry of Health and Prevention.
Demonstrating its rapid growth and expertise in the field, the hospital has performed over 60 lung transplants since reactivating its lung transplant program in 2022. This volume underscores its position as one of the region’s most advanced and active transplant centers.
These significant achievements highlight the potential of Abu Dhabi’s transplant program and solidify the emirate’s growing reputation as an international hub for treating complex lung conditions. The center now provides advanced care for diseases including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), interstitial lung diseases, cystic fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, and bronchiectasis.
Source: WAM
