Saudi Arabia

King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre Performs the World’s First Robotic-Assisted Artificial Heart Pump Implantation

King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) in Riyadh has made a historic leap in medical innovation by successfully performing the world’s first robotic-assisted implantation of an artificial heart pump (HeartMate 3). This pioneering procedure, developed by Abbott, promises to reshape the future of cardiac care and patient recovery.

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A Milestone in Medical Technology

This revolutionary surgery, which was performed on a 35-year-old man suffering from advanced heart failure and complications in kidney and lung function, marks a significant breakthrough in the realm of healthcare. The patient had been hospitalized for 120 days prior to the surgery and, thanks to this advanced procedure, is now expected to make a full recovery and return home to his family.

The HeartMate 3, developed by Abbott, is designed to provide patients with a reliable and life-saving solution when the heart can no longer perform its function effectively. Its implantation through robotic-assisted surgery, led by Dr. Feras Khaliel, head of cardiac surgery at KFSHRC, demonstrates the cutting-edge capabilities of modern medical technology.

The Surgical Process: A Leap Forward in Efficiency

The robotic-assisted approach to the HeartMate 3 implantation significantly reduced both the procedure and recovery times. Traditionally, similar surgeries would require an extended stay in the intensive care unit (ICU) and longer recovery periods. In contrast, the patient required only four days in ICU, compared to the typical 26-day recovery time associated with traditional methods.

Furthermore, recovery is expected to be much faster, with discharge anticipated within just 10 days, compared to the 63-day average recovery for conventional surgeries. This advancement not only reduces hospital stays but also offers patients a quicker return to their normal lives, minimizing both physical and emotional strain.

A Remarkable Partnership in Medical Innovation

Dr. Khaliel, who also serves as the director of the Robotics and Minimally Invasive Surgery Program at KFSHRC, praised the success of the procedure, highlighting the precision and safety of robotic-assisted surgeries. He emphasized that the patient experienced no infections or complications such as bleeding during or after the surgery, which is a remarkable feat in such complex operations. The minimal scarring from the surgery left the patient astounded, further underscoring the remarkable benefits of this advanced robotic technology.

Dr. Bjorn Zoega, deputy CEO of KFSHRC, expressed his pride in this achievement, stating, “This milestone demonstrates our ability to balance bold innovation with strict safety measures, delivering cutting-edge medical solutions that redefine the possibilities in healthcare.” This success not only showcases KFSHRC’s expertise but also reinforces Saudi Arabia’s emerging leadership in the global medical field.

The Role of Abbott in Transforming Cardiac Care

Abbott, a global leader in health technology, played a vital role in this historic procedure. Keith Boettiger, Vice President for Abbott’s heart failure business, noted, “We are honored to have partnered with KFSHRC in Saudi Arabia on this transformative initiative, which underscores the pivotal role of health technology in improving lives and enhancing health outcomes.” This collaboration highlights Abbott’s commitment to advancing healthcare and empowering people to live healthier, fuller lives.

KFSHRC’s Legacy of Medical Pioneering

The successful implantation of the HeartMate 3 is part of a broader legacy of global achievements at KFSHRC. This includes the world’s first fully robotic heart transplant and robotic liver transplantation, further solidifying the hospital’s position at the forefront of specialized medical care and innovation.

KFSHRC has consistently set the standard for excellence in healthcare. It was ranked first in the Middle East and Africa and 20th globally in the list of the world’s top 250 Academic Medical Centers for the second consecutive year. Furthermore, the hospital has been recognized as the most valuable healthcare brand in the Kingdom and the Middle East, according to the 2024 Brand Finance rankings. In the same year, it was also listed among the world’s best 250 hospitals and included in Newsweek’s 2025 list of the World’s Best Smart Hospitals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the robotic-assisted artificial heart pump implantation?

The robotic-assisted implantation of the HeartMate 3 at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) is the world’s first procedure of its kind. It marks a significant advancement in cardiac care, offering a faster and more precise method for implanting a life-saving artificial heart pump, which is crucial for patients with advanced heart failure.

How does robotic-assisted surgery differ from traditional surgery?

Robotic-assisted surgery uses advanced robotic systems to assist surgeons in performing highly precise and minimally invasive procedures. Unlike traditional surgery, it allows for smaller incisions, less tissue damage, and faster recovery times. In this case, the robotic system enabled the artificial heart pump implantation with minimal scarring and reduced risks of complications, such as infections or bleeding.

Who led the groundbreaking procedure?

The procedure was led by Dr. Feras Khaliel, the head of cardiac surgery and director of the Robotics and Minimally Invasive Surgery Program at KFSHRC. Dr. Khaliel is recognized for his expertise in robotic-assisted surgeries and played a key role in performing this pioneering procedure.

What is the HeartMate 3 and how does it help patients?

The HeartMate 3 is an artificial heart pump developed by Abbott. It is used to support patients with severe heart failure by helping the heart pump blood more effectively when it is no longer capable of doing so on its own. It provides a reliable, life-saving solution for individuals with advanced heart failure, improving their quality of life and offering them hope for the future.

How long did the patient stay in the hospital after the surgery?

The patient spent only four days in the ICU after the robotic-assisted implantation of the HeartMate 3, which is a significant reduction compared to the typical 26-day recovery for traditional procedures. The patient is expected to be discharged within 10 days, whereas conventional recovery times often require up to 63 days in the hospital.

What was the role of Abbott in this achievement?

Abbott, a global leader in health technology, developed the HeartMate 3 artificial heart pump. Abbott’s partnership with KFSHRC played a pivotal role in making this breakthrough possible. The collaboration underscores Abbott’s commitment to advancing healthcare technology and improving the lives of patients worldwide.

How does this achievement contribute to Saudi Arabia’s position in the medical field?

This world-first robotic-assisted procedure demonstrates Saudi Arabia’s leadership in healthcare innovation. It highlights the country’s growing role as a global hub for medical advancements, solidifying the reputation of King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre as a pioneer in medical technology and patient care.

What other medical achievements has KFSHRC accomplished?

KFSHRC is renowned for several medical milestones, including performing the world’s first fully robotic heart transplant and robotic liver transplantation. These achievements, along with the robotic-assisted HeartMate 3 implantation, reinforce the hospital’s status as a global leader in specialized healthcare and medical research.

What recognition has KFSHRC received for its contributions to healthcare?

KFSHRC has been ranked first in the Middle East and Africa and 20th globally in the world’s top 250 Academic Medical Centers for two consecutive years. It has also been named the most valuable healthcare brand in the Kingdom and the Middle East by the 2024 Brand Finance rankings. Furthermore, it has been included in the World’s Best Smart Hospitals list for 2025 by Newsweek magazine.

Conclusion

The successful robotic-assisted implantation of the HeartMate 3 at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre represents a monumental achievement in medical innovation. This groundbreaking procedure not only advances the field of cardiac surgery but also sets a new standard for patient care, offering faster recovery times and reduced risks compared to traditional methods.

KFSHRC’s commitment to pioneering medical technology continues to solidify Saudi Arabia’s position as a leader in global healthcare innovation. With its legacy of achievements, including the world’s first fully robotic heart transplant and robotic liver transplantation, KFSHRC is consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible in modern medicine.

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