Muscat: The spinal surgery team at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH), a member of University Medical City, has successfully adopted three innovative surgical techniques for the treatment of spinal diseases and deformities, making it the first in the region to do so in specialist healthcare services. The seamless incorporation of surgical robots, 3D printing, and virtual reality into individual procedures represents a significant step forward in medical treatment, demonstrating the institution's dedication to adopting cutting-edge global medical technology.
These sophisticated methods have been used in difficult procedures such as scoliosis correction, spinal canal decompression, and spinal tumor excision. The University Medical City has become the region's first healthcare institution to use all three technology in a single operation, establishing its position as a regional pioneer in specialized spinal surgery.
Dr. Hamad Al Far'ei, consultant orthopedic and spinal surgeon, described the event as a watershed moment in Oman's spinal surgery capabilities. Our medical staff has successfully integrated three cutting-edge technologies into unified processes, greatly increasing surgical accuracy while minimizing risks and problems, hence improving treatment outcomes and patient recovery times.
The technology integration includes surgical robotics for ultraprecise instrument navigation during procedures, which improves safety outcomes while reducing procedure duration; 3D printing technology for accurate anatomical models for surgical planning, particularly useful in difficult deformity cases; and virtual reality, which provides real-time, detailed cross-sectional imaging during operations for improved visual guidance.
This strategic action is consistent with Oman Vision 2040's healthcare goals of creating an innovative, quality-driven health system that draws on national experience.
Dr. Siham Salim Al Sinani, CEO of University Medical City, remarked: Using these modern technology boosts public trust in government healthcare services while improving specialist care standards. This exemplifies our implementation of national health strategy by localising modern medical technology to offer services that meet international standards.
The milestone highlights Oman's increasing competence in sophisticated medical procedures, while decreasing reliance on foreign treatment referrals for spinal ailments. Hospital officials say they want to extend the use of these technologies to other surgical specialties in the future.
