KUWAIT: The Ministry of Health announced on Monday the successful completion of two simultaneous surgeries using robotic (remote) surgery technology by separate medical teams at Al-Farwaniya Hospital and the Sabah Al-Ahmad Kidney and Urology Center. The achievement reflects the ongoing expansion in Kuwait’s healthcare sector, leveraging advanced medical technologies and artificial intelligence to provide patient care at the highest international standards.
According to the Ministry, the patient, a man in his sixties, was initially treated for gallstones when a tumor was incidentally detected in his left kidney during routine medical examinations. Given the need for both a cholecystectomy and a radical nephrectomy, the surgeries were performed simultaneously using robotic technology to minimize operative time and enhance recovery outcomes. The patient was prepared at the Sabah Al-Ahmad Center, where the kidney and urinary tract team was stationed, while the general surgery team from Al-Farwaniya Hospital participated remotely. Dr Ahmed Al-Mulla conducted the gallbladder removal via robotic control.
Dr Abdullah Sultan from Al-Farwaniya Hospital was also present at the Sabah Al-Ahmad Center to ensure immediate intervention in line with precautionary measures for advanced robotic procedures. Following the successful completion of the cholecystectomy, the urology team, led by Dr Saad Al-Dosari and Dr Ahmed Al-Marzouq, performed the radical nephrectomy using robotic technology, with precise coordination between the two teams. The Ministry confirmed that both procedures were successful, with the patient now stable and recovering.
KUWAIT: Ministry of Health announces the successful completion of two simultaneous surgeries using robotic (remote) surgery technology.- KUNA photos
The accomplishment underscores the expertise of Kuwait’s national medical personnel, the advanced technological infrastructure of the healthcare system, and the preparedness of Kuwaiti hospitals to implement innovative treatment methods that integrate multiple medical facilities. The Ministry emphasized that this milestone is part of the national program to expand robotic surgery services, positioning Kuwait among leading countries in the field and reaffirming its commitment to developing healthcare services while maintaining the highest standards of quality and patient safety.
In another development, Minister of Health Dr Ahmad Al-Awadhi met on Tuesday with Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Roselyn Moraota, and her accompanying delegation to discuss ways to strengthen cooperation and support global humanitarian efforts aimed at combating transboundary infectious diseases. In a press statement, the Ministry of Health said the meeting reviewed avenues for bolstering partnerships and enhancing international health programs designed to eradicate AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria, while advancing universal health coverage in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Minister Dr Al-Awadhi affirmed Kuwait’s steadfast commitment to supporting international health initiatives that have a humanitarian impact in safeguarding lives and improving quality of life. He praised the pivotal role played by the Global Fund in reinforcing health systems and empowering low- and middle-income countries to confront epidemic diseases. For her part, Moraota expressed appreciation for Kuwait’s efforts in supporting global humanitarian health initiatives and its active developmental contributions that have made a tangible difference in improving health outcomes and saving lives across various parts of the world.
The meeting forms part of Kuwait’s continued efforts to strengthen cooperation with the Global Fund, within the framework of the Ministry of Health’s strategy to enhance international partnerships and consolidate collaboration with leading global organizations. These efforts underscore Kuwait’s humanitarian and pioneering role regionally and internationally, while contributing to the establishment of a robust health system dedicated to protecting human well-being.
Obesity conference
In another development, the Kuwaiti Surgeons Association, in collaboration with the Medical Services Authority of the Ministry of Defense and Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, organized the Third Kuwait Conference on Combating Obesity on Tuesday. The two-day event was held under the patronage and in the presence of the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Defense, Sheikh Dr Abdullah Meshaal Al-Sabah, and Head of the Medical Services Authority, Major General Dr Waleed Malallah.
In his opening remarks, Sheikh Abdullah Al-Meshaal emphasized that the conference reflects the spirit of cooperation and integration between the Ministry of Defense and national medical institutions. He highlighted that such events reinforce effective partnerships between national and international organizations and play a vital role in promoting public health.
He commended the significant efforts of the Medical Services Authority in supporting national initiatives to combat obesity, enhance public health awareness and promote preventive healthcare programs. Following the opening ceremony, Sheikh Abdullah toured the accompanying exhibition, where he was briefed on the latest medical technologies and awareness initiatives presented by participating institutions.
The conference aims to raise awareness on the prevention and treatment of obesity and promote healthy lifestyles among the community. It also provides a platform for medical professionals to exchange expertise and discuss public health challenges. The event aligns with the Ministry of Defense’s 2025–2030 strategic plan, which prioritizes advancing healthcare services for ministry personnel and supporting national health objectives. — KUNA
