Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Performs First Transcontinental Robotic-Assisted Focal Therapy For Prostate Cancer

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, a part of the M42 group, has reached a significant milestone in global healthcare. Collaborating with Cleveland Clinic experts in the U.S., they performed the first-ever remotely conducted transcontinental robotic-assisted focal therapy for prostate cancer. This non-invasive treatment targets specific prostate sections using ultrasound beams, eliminating major surgery or radiation needs.

The Focal-One system enhances this approach with a robotic arm that ensures precise and controlled ultrasound delivery. The innovative procedure allowed real-time collaboration between Dr. Ruben Olivares from Ohio and Dr. Waleed A. Hassen in Abu Dhabi, who managed the on-site execution.

Dr. Georges-Pascal Haber, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, highlighted the hospital's leadership in medical innovations: "Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has always been at the forefront of integrating advanced technology with world-class care. Remote procedures represent the future of healthcare, pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved in medicine."

He further stated that this procedure exemplifies their vision of leveraging cutting-edge technology with collaborative expertise to set new benchmarks in patient care. The success marks a new era in global surgical collaboration, envisioning a future where advanced treatments are accessible to patients regardless of location.

Hasan Jasem Al Nowais, Chairman of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, remarked on this achievement: "This innovative remote procedure is a remarkable feat that presents the possibility to manage complex care needs across borders and close global health inequities." He expressed delight in partnering with U.S. colleagues to set new standards for transcontinental healthcare.

Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi from Abu Dhabi’s Department of Health added that the region is rapidly evolving towards establishing one of the world’s most intelligent healthcare systems. She noted that advanced infrastructure and innovation-driven regulatory frameworks enhance healthcare quality and accessibility.

Pioneering Medical Solutions

The journey to this achievement began in October 2023 when Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi introduced Focal One high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) therapy for prostate tumors. This novel approach uses advanced imaging technology to precisely target cancerous cells while minimizing side effects.

This milestone coincides with Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi celebrating ten years of excellence in care, making strides through technology integration. As they explore remote procedures' potential, implications extend beyond prostate cancer treatment, opening pathways for surgical education and collaboration globally.

The successful procedure lasted about an hour without complications, showcasing advanced technology's transformative potential in expanding access to specialized care. It not only opens new pathways for surgical education but also drives global accessibility to advanced care.

With inputs from WAM