UAE performs first pediatric robotic surgeries at Al Qassimi Hospital

Al Qassimi Women's and Children's Hospital has completed the UAE's first series of robotic surgeries on children. The Sharjah-based hospital, part of Emirates Health Services, performed complex gastrointestinal and pediatric urology procedures using surgical robots.

The operations were completed successfully with positive clinical outcomes and smooth patient recovery, according to hospital officials. All procedures were performed by Dr Mohammed Hassan, Consultant Paediatric Surgeon, working with a team of anesthetists, pediatric surgical nurses, and support staff.

What's the news?

Al Qassimi Hospital introduced robotic surgical technology to its pediatric services and completed the first series of robot-assisted surgeries on children in the UAE. The procedures included:

• Complex gastrointestinal surgeries
• Pediatric urology operations
• Multiple cases with successful outcomes

Dr Khalid Khalfan, Consultant Paediatric Surgeon and Deputy Hospital Director for Medical Affairs, said the technology offers safer, less invasive treatment options and improves surgical outcomes for young patients.

Why does it matter?

Robotic surgery gives surgeons exceptional accuracy when operating in small and complex anatomical spaces - particularly important for children. The technology uses three-dimensional visualization systems and highly precise instruments that replicate human hand movements.

Dr Hassan explained that this allows surgeons to perform procedures with greater precision, flexibility and control than traditional methods. For pediatric patients, this means:

• Less invasive procedures
• Reduced surgical trauma
• Faster recovery times
• Better long-term outcomes

The success positions Al Qassimi Hospital as a leading center for pediatric robotic surgery in the region.

The context

Robotic-assisted surgery is seeing growing global adoption, particularly for reconstructive and minimally invasive procedures that require high precision. Major medical centers worldwide have been expanding robotic surgery programs over the past decade.

Dr Safiya Al Khaja, Director of Al Qassimi Women's and Children's Hospital, said the achievement reflects Emirates Health Services' commitment to clinical excellence and patient-centered care. The hospital plans to use this initiative to advance medical education, research and innovation in child healthcare.

The UAE has been investing heavily in advanced medical technologies as part of broader healthcare modernization efforts. Pediatric robotic surgery represents a particularly specialized field, as it requires adapted techniques and equipment for smaller patients.