A medical breakthrough developed in Riyadh has paved the way for the first fully robotic heart transplant in the United States, marking a new chapter in international surgical collaboration and innovation.
The technique, originally pioneered at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) in Saudi Arabia, was recently adopted by Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center in Houston, where a team of surgeons successfully completed the procedure. It represents the latest milestone in a series of advancements led by Saudi Arabia in the field of minimally invasive surgery.
The method was first performed in September 2024 by a multidisciplinary team at KFSHRC, led by Professor Feras Khaliel. The surgery, conducted on a 16-year-old patient with end-stage heart failure, was the world’s first fully robotic heart transplant. Using a minimally invasive and chest-sparing approach, the technique aimed to lower the risk of infection and speed up recovery. These are key considerations for transplant patients who are often immunosuppressed.
Following the success of the initial operation, Professor Khaliel patented the technique, which has since been used in several cases at KFSHRC involving both adults and children. The approach is now drawing international interest, with Professor Khaliel working closely with hospitals across the United States and Europe to introduce training and expand research partnerships.
Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center President Bradley T. Lembcke said: “This pinnacle in heart transplantation brings great pride to our hospital and adds to its legacy of medical achievements and caring for the most complex health conditions that only advanced health care systems can treat successfully.”
Health Innovation in Saudi
The adoption of this Saudi-developed technique in a major U.S. medical institution highlights the growing global recognition of Saudi Arabia’s contributions to cutting-edge medical science. The Kingdom’s increasing focus on healthcare innovation is part of a broader effort to position itself as a global leader in high-impact research and clinical practice.
In acknowledgment of this achievement, Professor Khaliel and his team were formally recognized by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. The procedure has attracted attention from medical institutions and media outlets around the world, placing Saudi Arabia at the center of one of the most promising developments in cardiac surgery to date.
This milestone is part of a wider trend in which Saudi healthcare institutions are shaping global medical practices. The Kingdom is playing a growing role not only through innovation but also by fostering international partnerships that aim to improve patient outcomes worldwide.
Comments (0)