King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC) has
achieved a remarkable milestone by successfully employing advanced robotic technology to
implant electrodes into the brain of a patient with refractory epilepsy, unresponsive to
conventional treatments. This groundbreaking procedure marks the Middle East’s inaugural use of robotic assistance in identifying epilepsy foci.
The patient, who had endured unyielding epilepsy for years, underwent a transformative surgical intervention. A cutting-edge robotic system facilitated a minimally invasive approach, wherein minute apertures (no more than 2 mm in diameter) were discreetly created within the cranial framework to implant the electrodes. This method enabled the precise measurement of cerebral electrical activity, accurately identifying seizure origins.
The robotic system is a more accurate and efficient alternative to the traditional Leksell frame method, which requires more time and effort to calculate the measurements and determine the correct placement of the holes. Furthermore, the system augments patient well-being and extends to a broader spectrum of neurosurgical interventions, further underscoring its
transformative potential.
Across leading medical centers worldwide, robotic surgery emerges as a pioneering trend,
empowering medical practitioners with precision, adaptability, and control during complex
procedures. Beyond its surgical prowess, robotic interventions bear the hallmark of reduced
invasiveness, translating into expedited recovery periods and reduced postoperative risks.
This historic achievement stands testament to KFSH&RC’s unwavering commitment to
harnessing cutting-edge technologies in its relentless pursuit of enhanced patient outcomes, experience, and operational efficacy.
Renowned for its exemplary neurosciences department, KFSH&RC has consistently delivered exceptional care to adult and pediatric patients facing complex and refractory epilepsy. Recent breakthroughs include successfully implanting electrodes in an 11-year-old child’s brain and a historic brain hemispherectomy on a 14-day-old infant, marking global milestones and
reaffirming the hospital’s pioneering spirit.
Ranked among the world’s premier healthcare institutions, KFSH&RC secured 20th position in the 2023 world rankings, emerging as the Middle East and Africa’s definitive leader in specialized healthcare, according to Brand Finance.
About King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre:
King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSH&RC) is a leading terTary & quaternaryhealthcare provider in the Middle East. KFSH&RC’s mission is to provide the highest level of specialized healthcare in an integrated educaTonal and research seUng.
KFSH&RC has a rich history of providing high-quality clinical services, including leading-edge treatments in oncology, transplantaTon, cardiovascular diseases, neurosciences, and geneTcs.This year, Brand Finance recognized KFSH&RC as the number one Academic Medical Centre in the MENA region and the top 20 internaTonally. Meanwhile, in 2022, KFSH&RC was ranked among the leading healthcare providers across the globe by Newsweek.
Guided by the goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, KFSH&RC is undertaking a TransformaTon towards a financially sustainable, independent, not-for-profit hospital. KFSH&RC has been internaTonally recognized for its conTnuous achievements in paTent experiences and outcomes by accreditaTons from the HIMSS Davies Award of Excellence, CHiME Most Wired, JCI, CAP, ISO 22301 & 27001, to list a few.
