Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
The reliability of robotic surgical systems was put to the test in a recent high-stakes emergency at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC).
A 71-year-old patient with a complex kidney injury required urgent intervention, and within six hours, a robotic system was deployed to perform a rare reconstructive procedure.
Three days later, the patient was discharged - with no complications and a CT scan confirming excellent healing at the repair site.
Dr Ather Abdelbaky, Acting Chair of the Urology Division and Robotic Surgeon at SSMC, said this case highlighted the growing role of advanced robotic technologies in managing highly complex cases, including emergencies.
Dr Abdelbaky described robotic-assisted urology as an advanced form of minimally invasive surgery. "A surgeon operates using a highly sophisticated robotic system that translates hand movements into extremely precise actions inside the body," he said in an interview with Aletihad.
The technology combines high-definition 3D vision, wrist-like dexterity beyond human range, and ultra-precise movement, enabling surgeons to operate with greater accuracy, less tissue damage, and better preservation of function, he explained.
Those capabilities are particularly valuable in demanding procedures such as kidney cancer surgery, prostatectomy, and complex reconstructive cases like SSMC's recent emergency.
For patients, the benefits are just as tangible: smaller incisions, less pain, faster recovery, and better functional outcomes, the specialist added.
"Robotic surgery consistently improves outcomes in several measurable ways - reduced blood loss and lower transfusion rates; shorter hospital stays of one to two days compared to the traditional four to seven; better organ preservation particularly in kidney surgery; and lower complication rates," Dr Abdelbaky said. The result is a faster return to normal life.
The specialist pointed out, however, that the success of robots in surgeries cannot be achieved without human expertise and the right infrastructure.
"Using robotic surgery in an emergency requires three key elements: a highly experienced surgical team; immediate access to advanced technology; and a system designed for rapid decision-making," he said.
Dr Abdelbaky said SSMC ticks all three boxes, with a team trained not only in elective robotic procedures but also in complex reconstructive and salvage scenarios. "This allows us to confidently extend robotic surgery into emergency settings when appropriate."
Inside modern operating theatres, surgical expertise is increasingly supported by advanced tools. And the rapidly evolving tech landscape suggests that greater capabilities can be expected in the future, he said.
"We are moving towards faster, technology-enabled emergency response systems; greater use of minimally invasive and robotic surgery - even in urgent cases; and highly specialised centres capable of managing the most complex conditions locally," Dr Abdelbaky said.
While robotics enhances precision, control and visualisation, other technologies such as real-time imaging, fluorescence-guided surgery, intraoperative ultrasound, and data-driven surgical planning are also aiding life-saving procedures.
He added that artificial intelligence is beginning to support certain areas - such as surgical planning and risk prediction - further enhancing the ability of surgeons to manage complex cases.
The growing adoption of such systems reinforces the UAE's position as a global centre for advanced healthcare, he said. It also supports Abu Dhabi's goal of retaining patients who might otherwise seek treatment abroad, while drawing international patients seeking specialised care. "The future is extremely promising," Dr Abdelbaky said.
