Innovative Heart Transplant Procedure Successfully Conducted in Abu Dhabi

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi (CCAD) recently made history in the UAE’s healthcare sector by performing a successful heart transplant on a young Emirati man, Muhammad Al Ketbi. After battling heart disease for over a decade and facing multi-organ failure, Muhammad’s journey to recovery began with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), which acted as an external heart and lung support. However, his condition required a more permanent solution, leading the multidisciplinary team at CCAD to place him on a biventricular assist device (BiVAD).

For four critical months, the BiVAD kept Muhammad stable while waiting for a suitable donor organ. The complex surgery involved transplanting a healthy heart into Muhammad’s chest, making it a groundbreaking case in the UAE’s medical history. This marked the first instance where a patient underwent all three stages of treatment: ECMO support, BiVAD assistance, and a heart transplant.

CCAD’s success in Muhammad’s case showcases their dedication to personalized care. His treatment plan was tailored to his specific needs, utilizing advanced technologies and a highly skilled medical team. This approach highlights CCAD’s designation as a Centre of Excellence (COE) for adult cardiac surgery by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi.

Muhammad’s successful transplant serves as a ray of hope for many Emirati patients struggling with heart failure. CCAD’s position as a leader in advanced heart transplant procedures signifies a significant advancement in the UAE’s ability to provide life-saving cardiac care to its citizens. The future looks brighter for Emirati patients with heart disease, thanks to the innovative efforts of CCAD and its committed medical professionals.