ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)

SEHA, a subsidiary of PureHealth, the largest healthcare group in the Middle East, has announced the successful treatment and recovery of 11-year-old Mariam, who was diagnosed with a rare and serious craniofacial infection at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC).

What initially appeared to be a routine sinus infection progressed into a severe and potentially life-threatening condition. Mariam developed osteomyelitis of the frontal bone and a swelling known as Pott’s puffy tumour, complicated by a subperiosteal abscess and an intracranial extradural abscess—requiring urgent, highly specialised surgical care.

Mariam had been suffering from persistent forehead pain, swelling, and general fatigue. Her parents observed that she was missing school, withdrawing from activities, and had lost her usual energy and joy. 

Following a comprehensive assessment by SKMC’s Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) department, the diagnosis was confirmed: acute bacterial rhinosinusitis with multiple serious complications.

“As a mother, nothing is more difficult than seeing your child in pain and not knowing how to help, especially when the doctors explained the seriousness of her condition,” said Mariam’s mother. “When we met Dr Remon, we finally felt hope. He explained everything with kindness and gave us the confidence we needed.”

Under the expert care of Dr. Remon Bazak, Consultant Otolaryngologist at SKMC, a complex surgical plan was implemented involving:

- Clearance the sinus infection endoscopically
- Drainage of the forehead and intracranial abscesses
- Surgical removal of infected bone and surrounding tissue
- Reconstruction of the forehead bone using a customised titanium mesh implant

“This was a challenging case involving both infection and structural damage,” said Dr. Remon Bazak. “Our goal was not only to treat the disease but to restore Mariam’s quality of life. I am proud of her strength and the success of her recovery.”

The surgery was successful. Mariam’s pain resolved, her energy returned, and her forehead was reconstructed with excellent functional and cosmetic outcomes. She has since returned to school and resumed her normal daily activities with enthusiasm and joy.

Mariam continues to receive routine follow-up care at SKMC to ensure long-term stability and well-being. Her family remains deeply grateful for the skill, compassion, and dedication of Dr. Remon and the entire ENT team.

Mariam’s case is a powerful reminder of the importance of early diagnosis, specialised care, and the resilience of the human spirit. At SKMC, we are proud to be part of her healing journey and remain committed to delivering world-class, patient-centred care.