NMC Specialty Hospital Abu Dhabi offers hope to Achalasia patients with advanced POEM procedure
The successful case underscores NMC Healthcare's commitment to excellence in clinical care and innovation
In a major advancement for gastrointestinal care in the region, NMC Specialty Hospital, Abu Dhabi, has successfully performed a cutting-edge procedure to treat achalasia, a rare and progressive swallowing disorder using a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure known as POEM (Peroral Endoscopic Myotomy).
The patient, a 23-year-old nurse, had been battling severe achalasia symptoms for several years. By the time she was referred to Dr Yogesh Shastri, consultant and head of the department of gastroenterology at NMC Specialty Hospital, her condition had significantly deteriorated. She was unable to eat or drink without extreme discomfort, had become severely malnourished and was relying on intravenous fluids. She also suffered from recurrent chest infections and experienced drastic weight loss, which had forced her to take indefinite leave from work.
Achalasia, which affects approximately 1 in 100,000 people, occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) fails to relax, preventing food and liquids from entering the stomach. Over time, this leads to food accumulation in the esophagus resulting in regurgitation, malnutrition, chest pain and recurrent respiratory infections. If left untreated, the disorder can severely impact overall health and quality of life.
Given the severity and complexity of her case, Dr. Shastri and his team opted for POEM - a scarless, natural orifice procedure performed entirely through the mouth without any skin incisions. The technique involves creating a narrow and long tunnel within the esophageal wall to precisely cut the tight or malfunctioning muscle to relieve the obstruction at the junction of food pipe and stomach. The procedure, known for its high success rate and faster recovery time, is considered a significant advancement compared to traditional and conventional surgical approaches.
"POEM is especially beneficial and is standard of care in cases like this one, where other treatments such as balloon dilation or Botox injections are no longer viable," said Dr Shastri. "It allows for a tailored and precise muscle incision depending on the severity of the disease and provides long-lasting relief with minimal risk".
The outcome of the endoscopic surgery was highly successful, and the patient's transformation was immediate. Within days of the procedure, she was able to eat and drink normally for the first time in months. Her strength and energy levels improved, she began regaining weight, and has since resumed her professional duties with renewed energy and optimism.
"After everything I've been through, being able to drink water without fear and discomfort felt like being reborn," said the patient. "As a nurse, I understood the risks, but I also knew this was my only chance to reclaim my life. I'm beyond grateful to Dr. Shastri and the team at NMC."
Reflecting on her journey, she added: "When I was at my lowest, even a sip of water felt impossible. Today, I can enjoy meals, socialise again, and return to doing what I love - caring for others - with a deeper compassion having experienced firsthand what it means to suffer. It feels like I've been given my life back."
POEM remains a highly specialised procedure available only in select centers globally, requiring specialised training and advanced equipment. By offering the procedure locally, NMC Specialty Hospital is bridging a critical gap in care for achalasia patients across the UAE and the wider region and for patients who previously had to travel to countries like the US, Germany, India or South Korea.
"At NMC Specialty Hospital, Abu Dhabi our focus is not just on treating disease, but restoring dignity and quality of life," added Dr. Shastri. "Innovations like POEM are at the heart of our mission to deliver world-class, patient centered care using the latest medical advancements".
This successful case underscores NMC Healthcare's commitment to excellence in clinical care and innovation. As the hospital continues to invest in advanced procedures and multidisciplinary expertise, it offers renewed hope to patients facing rare and challenging conditions here in the UAE.
For more information on NMC Healthcare, visit www.nmc.ae.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Zawya
30 minutes ago
- Zawya
Cigna Healthcare Middle East secures Category "A" health insurance license in Oman
Oman – Cigna Healthcare Middle East, a global health service company, has achieved a significant regulatory milestone in Oman, securing a Category 'A' health insurance license from the Financial Services Authority (FSA). The license authorizes Cigna Healthcare to underwrite, manage and issue health insurance under the Sultanate's newly established 'Health Insurance ' framework. As the first international health insurer, and one of only a select few providers in the market, to be granted the coveted Category "A" health insurance license, the distinction places the business among the market's most trusted insurers, recognized by the FSA for meeting stringent regulatory, operational and service excellence standards. It also affirms Cigna Healthcare's strategic role in helping shape a more inclusive, high quality and trusted health insurance landscape in Oman. 'Being granted the Category 'A' license is more than a regulatory milestone – it's a powerful endorsement of our commitment to Oman, and our ability to deliver lasting value in Oman's transforming healthcare landscape,' said Raed Labaki, General Manager of Cigna Healthcare, Middle East (excluding UAE and KSA). ' As Oman accelerated healthcare reform to improve market stability and access to quality care, Cigna is proud to be part of this progress. Backed by global experience and deep local insights, we're ready to support the Sultanate's vision for a more sustainable, trusted and accessible healthcare system that meets the needs of individuals, businesses and the broader economy.' This milestone builds on Cigna Healthcare's deep-rooted presence in Oman, which began in 2017 with the acquisition of Zurich's regional health insurance portfolio. Since then, Cigna Healthcare has established a fully licensed branch in Muscat, built a strong local team, and introduced tailored health plans such as Cigna Choice to meet the specific needs of the Omani market. Through partnerships with trusted local players like MedNet and the rollout of digital tools, Cigna delivers fully compliant, end-to-end health and well-being solutions for multinational, regional, and local employers. Abdullah Amir Al Hatmi, Country Manager of Cigna Healthcare Middle East (Oman Branch) commented: 'We thank the Financial Services Authority for granting us this license. This achievement reinforces our commitment to contribute to a sustainable, trusted, and inclusive health system that meets the evolving needs of individuals, businesses, and the broader economy. We are ready to deliver Cigna's leading health insurance solutions and support national platforms like eDhamani to foster greater integration, transparency, and faster service delivery across insurers, providers and TPAs in the healthcare ecosystem.' As Oman's healthcare landscape evolves – with initiatives like the eDhamani digital health platform and the anticipated implementation of mandatory health coverage – Cigna remains committed to investing in Oman's healthcare future, and contributing to Oman's economic goals. About Cigna Healthcare Cigna Healthcare is a global health service company dedicated to helping people improve their health and vitality. With a heritage of over 250 years, Cigna Healthcare is committed to its promise of being together all the way in providing health care, clinical management, and wellness programs to employers, individuals, and governments around the world. Operating for more than 19 years in the Middle East region, Cigna Healthcare serves the GCC markets and Lebanon through its locally regulated entities. The company delivers both health and wellness services to individuals, employers, and government entities in the region. With a deep-rooted understanding of the African market, a regional presence in Kenya and a dedicated claims team servicing over 250,000 members, Cigna Healthcare provides extensive coverage across the continent, ensuring access to health care solutions for local companies and multi-national corporations alike. [The coverage spans several countries, including but not limited to Morocco, Kenya, Uganda, Mauritius, Tanzania, Nigeria, Ghana, Mozambique, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Zambia] Cigna Healthcare maintains a global sales capability in 30 countries and jurisdictions, employing over 72,000 people who service more than 164 million customer relationships. To learn more about Cigna Healthcare, visit
Zawya
an hour ago
- Zawya
Novartis and Kuwait Society of Dermatologists enter strategic partnership to advance dermatological care in Kuwait
Under the title 'United for Dermatology', the partnership will drive awareness, disease understanding, and improve the lives of patients in Kuwait diagnosed with Psoriasis, Hidradenitis Suppurativa & Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria Kuwait City, Kuwait – Novartis, a global leader in innovative medicines, signed a partnership agreement with the Kuwait Society of Dermatologists, focused on transforming dermatological care in Kuwait. This strategic partnership will prioritize high-impact immunological skin conditions such as Psoriasis, Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) and Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU) with a shared goal of bridging diagnostic gaps and improving the quality of life for patients. Together, Psoriasis, Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS), and Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU) represent distinct chronic inflammatory skin diseases, each with unique clinical presentations and significant impact on quality of life. Beyond physical symptoms, conditions like Psoriasis, Hidradenitis Suppurativa and CSU often take a significant toll on patients' mental health, contributing to anxiety, depression and social isolation—underscoring the importance of timely, compassionate and comprehensive care. This partnership is focused on increasing education and disease awareness within the public and HCPs, in addition to evidence-driven solutions that ensure faster, more accurate diagnoses and better treatment outcomes. Dr. Atlal Allafi, President, Kuwait Society of Dermatologists, said, 'Our partnership with Novartis is focused on breaking down barriers to care. Together, we're working to empower patients to recognize symptoms earlier and support physicians in identifying these conditions sooner. By accelerating diagnosis and access to treatment, we aim to enhance patient outcomes and overall well-being.' Rabab Monir, Country Operations Head - Kuwait, Novartis, added, 'Driven by our mission to transform the future of medicine, Novartis is proud to join forces with the Kuwait Society of Dermatologists to elevate dermatological care across Kuwait. Through this collaboration, we're fostering a healthcare environment where early intervention and personalized treatment pave the way for improved patient outcomes.' A professional organization for dermatologists in Kuwait, the Kuwait Society of Dermatologists is dedicated to advancing dermatological care through education, research, and public awareness. Committed to the highest standards of medical ethics and excellence, the society plays a key role in promoting skin health across the nation. Dr Abeer Albazali, Vice President, Kuwait Society of Dermatologists, commented, 'We aim to foster collaboration among dermatologists, encouraging the exchange of knowledge and best practices that drive progress in patient care. This partnership empowers us to move from dialogue to delivery—bringing global breakthroughs to life through locally tailored solutions.' Through this collaboration, Novartis and the Kuwait Society of Dermatologists reinforce their mutual commitment to a future where patients benefit from early diagnosis, individualized care, and an improved quality of life. Disease Descriptors Chronic Spontaneous Urticaria (CSU) is a medical condition that affects 0.5-1 per cent of the global population and is characterized by chronic hives that last for six weeks or longer. These hives can appear without an obvious trigger and may cause significant itching and discomfort. Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition more common in women and often undiagnosed, marked by recurrent, painful lumps or nodules under the skin. These lesions often become inflamed, can rupture, and may lead to scarring over time. Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disorder characterized by thick, red, scaly plaques on the skin. These lesions can be itchy, painful, and sometimes extensive. It is estimated that between 1 and 3 per cent of the population across countries in the Gulf are affected by this condition. About Novartis Novartis is an innovative medicines company. Every day, we work to reimagine medicine to improve and extend people's lives so that patients, healthcare professionals and societies are empowered in the face of serious disease. Our medicines reach more than 250 million people worldwide. Reimagine medicine with us: Visit us at and connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook, X/Twitter and Instagram.
Khaleej Times
an hour ago
- Khaleej Times
American Safety and Health Institute approves Health Tech Training as pioneer centre
Health Tech Training Center LLC (HTTC), a leading medical and non-medical training hub and a subsidiary of Response Plus Holding, the largest pre-hospital care and emergency medical services provider in the region, has been approved as a pioneer training centre by the American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI). With this first-of-its-kind endorsement by ASHI, HTTC is now authorized to conduct inspection and quality programmes of other centres providing essential emergency training courses. HTTC delivers a wide array of first-aid courses, including BLS, ACLS, PALS, Pre-Hospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) and the All-Hazards Disaster Response (AHDR) courses. Commenting the achievement, Dr Rohil Raghavan, Chief Executive Officer of Response Plus Holding PJSC, said: 'Over the past decade, HTTC has maintained a steady growth with its tailored medical and non-medical training courses. This endorsement by ASHI will go a long way in shaping HTTC's expansion in the region and beyond, further bringing to life the centre's vision to provide globally-accredited training modules to healthcare providers, educators, and corporate teams.' Founded in July 2014, Health Tech Training Center is accredited by leading entities. All HTTC courses follow a hands-on approach, encouraging learners to practice and demonstrate essential skills and knowledge crucial for saving lives. As for the instructors, they hold certifications from accredited bodies and utilize educational tools and realistic scenario-based teaching methods for optimized training results and impact. The American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI) is a reputable and well-established organization that specializes in providing training and certification programs for individuals in the fields of safety, health, and emergency response.
