
CDAA teams rescue 8 from Dhofar building fire
The teams successfully controlled the fire and rescued eight individuals, who are in good health.

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Times of Oman
3 days ago
- Times of Oman
University Medical City pioneers advanced spinal surgery techniques
Muscat: The spinal surgery team at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH), part of the University Medical City, has successfully implemented three groundbreaking surgical technologies for treating spinal disorders and deformities – marking a regional first in specialised healthcare services. The integrated use of surgical robotics, 3D printing, and virtual reality within single procedures represents a qualitative leap in medical care, demonstrating the institution's commitment to adopting cutting-edge global medical technologies. These advanced techniques have been applied in complex surgeries including scoliosis correction, spinal canal decompression, and spinal tumor resections. The University Medical City has become the region's first healthcare facility to simultaneously combine all three technologies in individual operations, establishing itself as a regional leader in specialized spinal surgery. Dr. Hamad Al Far'ei, Consultant Orthopedic and Spinal Surgeon, stated: "This achievement marks a transformative development in Oman's spinal surgery capabilities. Our medical team's integration of three advanced technologies into unified procedures has significantly enhanced surgical precision while reducing risks and complications – directly improving treatment outcomes and patient recovery times." The technological integration features Surgical robotics enabling ultra-precise instrument guidance during operations, improving safety outcomes while reducing procedure duration, 3D printing technology creating accurate anatomical models for surgical planning, particularly valuable in complex deformity cases and Virtual reality providing real-time, detailed cross-sectional imaging during operations for enhanced visual guidance This strategic initiative aligns with Oman Vision 2040's healthcare objectives to develop an innovative, quality-driven health system utilizing national expertise. Dr. Siham Salim Al Sinani, CEO of University Medical City, emphasised: "Implementing these advanced technologies strengthens public confidence in government healthcare services while elevating specialised care standards. This reflects our execution of national policies for healthcare development through localising modern medical technologies to deliver services meeting international benchmarks." The achievement underscores Oman's growing capabilities in complex medical interventions while reducing dependence on overseas treatment referrals for spinal conditions. Hospital administrators confirm plans to expand these technologies across additional surgical specialties in coming years.


Times of Oman
5 days ago
- Times of Oman
Health alert: Children at risk of ‘electronic addiction'
Muscat: The Ministry of Health (MOH) has issued a public advisory warning parents against the overuse of electronic devices by children during the summer vacation, citing the growing risk of what it terms 'electronic addiction' — a condition that can severely impact a child's emotional, mental, and social development. As families settle into the school break, the Ministry is calling on parents to be vigilant and proactive, emphasising that excessive screen time can lead to long-term behavioural and psychological issues. 'Devices were not created to raise our children,' the Ministry said in its statement. 'A child does not need a screen to light up his world, but rather an eye that loves him, a voice that answers him, and a heart that pays attention to him. Do not buy him false comfort at the price of a true childhood.' According to the advisory, signs of potential electronic addiction in children include noticeable mood changes, excessive use of devices such as smartphones, tablets, or gaming consoles, and an inability to control or limit time spent on screens. Children may also begin to withdraw from social interactions, neglect school responsibilities or household tasks, and display anxiety, anger, or agitation when access to devices is restricted. Other symptoms include compulsively checking notifications or messages, losing interest in activities not involving the internet, experiencing sleep disturbances, and showing signs of constant stress or depression. Health professionals warn that while digital devices have become a part of daily life — particularly for learning and entertainment — unregulated and unsupervised use can be harmful. The Ministry is urging parents to create a balanced environment by setting clear screen-time limits, encouraging outdoor play and family interaction, promoting hobbies and creative activities, and ensuring there are device-free zones and times at home. The MOH campaign comes at a time when many children spend prolonged hours indoors due to the summer heat, increasing the temptation to stay glued to screens. Officials stress that while technology can be a useful tool, it should never substitute real human connection, physical activity, or the nurturing presence of caregivers. The advisory is part of a wider initiative to promote mental well-being and support healthier family dynamics in an increasingly digital world. Parents are encouraged to lead by example in how they manage their own screen time and to prioritise quality time that strengthens bonds and reinforces positive habits. As Oman continues its focus on preventive health and child development, the Ministry's message is clear: the cost of convenience should never come at the expense of a child's childhood.


Times of Oman
5 days ago
- Times of Oman
Bangladesh: 19 dead, over 100 injured in Dhaka jet crash
Dhaka: At least nineteen people were killed and over 100 others injured after a Bangladesh Air Force training aircraft crashed into Milestone School and College in Dhaka's Uttara area on Monday, The Daily Star reported. Another victim died after being brought to the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, taking the confirmed death toll to nineteen. Dr Abhijit, told The Daily Star that more than 50 burn victims had arrived for treatment. A sixth-grade student was also brought dead to Dhaka Medical College (DMC) Hospital, said Prof Bidhan Sarker, head of Burn and Plastic Surgery at the hospital,The Daily Star reported. "After providing primary treatment, around 60 injured were referred to the burn institute, while 25 with minor injuries are receiving treatment here," said Dr Bazlur from Uttara Adhunik Hospital. Md Nasiruddin, Director of the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, said, "We have 30 beds at the emergency department. As they filled up quickly, we are sending some patients to other departments, " as per The Daily Star. The aircraft, identified as an 'F-7 BGI' training jet, took off around 1:06 pm (local time), according to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). Moments later, it crashed into the school premises and burst into flames. The crash triggered a massive fire and widespread panic as rescue visuals showed thick black smoke billowing over the school and emergency teams rushing in to evacuate the injured. Fire service personnel and Air Force officials quickly launched a rescue operation that is still underway. Bangladesh's Chief Adviser Mohammad Yunus expressed deep sorrow over the tragic Air Force jet crash, calling it a moment of "profound pain for the nation." "I express my deep grief and sorrow over the tragic incident of casualties caused by the crash of a Bangladesh Air Force F-7 BGI training aircraft at the Milestone School and College campus in the Diabari area of the capital today," Yunus said in a statement posted on X. "The loss suffered by the Air Force, the students, parents, teachers, and staff of Milestone School and College, as well as others affected by this accident, is irreparable. This is a moment of profound pain for the nation," he added. Yunus also directed hospitals and concerned departments to give full attention to the injured. "I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured and direct all concerned authorities, including hospitals, to address the situation with the utmost priority. The government will take necessary measures to investigate the cause of the accident and ensure all forms of assistance." Fire service teams reached the site quickly, and videos from the scene showed rescue personnel running, thick black smoke rising over the school, and panicked students being moved to safety. Earlier, Lima Khanam, an officer at the Fire Service Central Control Room, confirmed the death of one person. "The training aircraft crashed at the Milestone School and College in Diabari. Our team has recovered one body. The Air Force has rescued four people with injuries and taken them away," BDnews24 quoted her as saying. A school spokesperson told BDnews24 that the jet fell directly near the main gate, while students were attending classes. "The plane fell on the gate and crashed nearby. A class was in session where the plane crashed. The injured are being taken out one by one."