Nizwa: A dedicated medical team from the Spine Unit at Khoula Hospital, in partnership with a team from Nizwa Hospital, successfully carried out the inaugural surgical procedure for a case of degenerative scoliosis at Nizwa Hospital. This accomplishment is part of ongoing initiatives to improve medical collaboration and localize specialized healthcare services within the healthcare facilities of the governorates.
Dr. Sultan Saif Al Kalbani, the Head of the Spine Unit at Khoula Hospital and a Consultant in Orthopedic and Spine Surgery, who led the medical team, informed the Oman News Agency (ONA) that the surgery was conducted on a patient with an abnormal spine curvature, utilizing the latest surgical techniques available.
He explained that degenerative scoliosis typically affects older adults and results from the deterioration of cartilage, joints, and ligaments in the back, which causes curvature and significant back pain during movement. He stressed that this form of scoliosis is distinct from the scoliosis that affects children.
Dr. Al Kalbani emphasized that this achievement stems from effective collaboration between Khoula Hospital, the national reference center for spine surgeries, and Nizwa Hospital, supporting the Ministry of Health’s strategy to improve specialized services throughout various governorates in Oman and reduce the burden on central referral hospitals.
He pointed out that these procedures were previously performed outside the governorate, creating financial and psychological stress for patients and their families. However, localizing these services helps to ease such challenges and fosters a fair distribution of healthcare across the governorates. He also underscored the importance of cooperation among health institutions to share expertise and develop national skills capable of carrying out intricate surgeries.
Dr. Al Kalbani noted the Spine Unit’s dedication to enhancing spine surgery services according to the latest global standards, focusing on continuous training and upskilling of medical staff.
It's important to mention that Khoula Hospital acts as a center for the treatment of all types of scoliosis.
