Abu Dhabi clinic performs first cross-border robotic kidney surgery

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has achieved a medical milestone by performing the first cross-border robotic nephroureterectomy via telesurgery, connecting its advanced surgical team with a patient over 1,000 kilometers away in Pakistan, WAM reported.

The patient, diagnosed with a complex urological condition requiring a nephroureterectomy, was referred to Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi for its expertise in robotic and minimally invasive surgery. Leveraging state-of-the-art robotic technology, the hospital successfully carried out the procedure remotely.

Dr. Robert Abouassaly, Chair of the Integrated Surgical Institute, was physically present at the patient’s bedside in Pakistan, while Dr. Rabii Madi, Staff Physician in Urology, controlled the robotic system from Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. The team used a secure, high-speed digital connection to coordinate in real time, ensuring precision and safety despite the distance.

Dr. Georges-Pascal Haber, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, said, “This groundbreaking procedure demonstrates the power of innovation and expertise to transcend borders. It sets a new benchmark for global healthcare delivery, bringing world-class care directly to patients, wherever they are.”

Highlighting the significance of the collaboration, Dr. Robert Abouassaly noted, “Access to advanced robotic surgery in Pakistan would have been challenging for this patient. Telesurgery allowed us to deliver the same level of precision and best-in-class care that Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is known for, without the patient having to travel abroad.”

The procedure was completed without complications. The patient experienced minimal pain, a faster recovery, and an early discharge, illustrating the advantages of this innovative approach.

Dr. Rabii Madi added, “Operating the robotic console remotely required seamless coordination and real-time communication. This procedure proves that telesurgery can safely extend specialized care across borders, bridging gaps in access to advanced medical treatments.”

The success of this surgery highlights the potential of telesurgery to transform healthcare delivery globally, enabling patients in remote locations to benefit from expertise that was previously accessible only by traveling internationally.