Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Performs UAE's First Robotic Bilateral Kidney Transplant From Deceased Donor

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, a member of the M42 group, has achieved a significant milestone by performing the UAE's first robotic bilateral kidney transplant from a deceased donor. This procedure involved transplanting two kidneys from one donor into a 78-year-old Emirati patient with end-stage renal disease. The patient had been on hemodialysis for three years and needed both kidneys to meet his metabolic needs.

The innovative technique used in this surgery is particularly beneficial when donor kidneys are smaller or have reduced functionality, which can occur with deceased donors. By transplanting both kidneys simultaneously, the medical team optimised the patient's renal function, crucial for his recovery and long-term health. This approach also set a new standard in transplant surgery by using robotic-assisted technology, offering a minimally invasive option with faster recovery and improved outcomes.

Dr. Georges-Pascal Haber, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, expressed the importance of this achievement: "The successful execution of this robotic bilateral kidney transplant underscores our commitment to delivering world-class care and pushing the boundaries of medical excellence. This milestone is not only a significant achievement for Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi but also a step forward for the region. Offering our patients access to the most advanced surgical techniques will undoubtedly improve their quality of life."

Dr. Bashir Sankari, Institute Chair of Urology at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, led the procedure and highlighted its impact: "This robotic bilateral kidney transplantation optimises renal function by transplanting two kidneys simultaneously. It represents a critical advancement for patients with compromised organ function, providing greater longevity and improved outcomes. At Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, we continually strive to enhance patient outcomes through multidisciplinary expertise and cutting-edge technology."

Robotic-assisted surgery offers unmatched precision, allowing surgeons to position kidneys and connect blood vessels and urinary tracts with minimal invasiveness. The high-definition 3D visualisation reduces infection risks and postoperative complications often seen in traditional surgeries. Dr. Mohamed Eltemamy, lead robotic surgeon at Cleveland Clinic Ohio, added that this technique expands the donor pool and reduces waiting times.

The patient was considered high-risk due to secondary diabetes mellitus but benefited from the robotic approach's reduced risks compared to open surgery. He was discharged days after surgery, much sooner than traditional methods would allow. The success of this procedure reinforces Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi's role as a leader in minimally invasive techniques across various specialties.

Pioneering Transplant Milestones

Since launching its transplant programme in 2017, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has performed over 700 transplants, including 310 kidney transplants. As the UAE’s first multi-organ transplant facility, it has achieved several pioneering milestones such as executing the first simultaneous kidney transplant using a single robot and conducting the first "triple kidney swap" under the Paired Kidney Donation Program.

This successful robotic bilateral kidney transplant further establishes Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi as a global healthcare destination offering life-saving procedures with advanced technologies close to home.

With inputs from WAM