30-04-2025
Brain-dead donor saves life of Omani patient in nation's first heart transplant
Muscat: Doctors in Oman have successfully performed the first-ever heart transplant from a brain-dead donor on an Omani patient suffering from heart failure.
The five-hour procedure, carried out by an all-Omani multidisciplinary medical team, marks a milestone in the country's healthcare journey.
Dr. Hilal Al Sabti, Minister of Health, hailed the achievement as a turning point for Oman's medical sector.
'This success is not the result of a single team's effort but a reflection of a comprehensive national vision, the strength of our medical professionals, and the spirit of humanitarian giving,' he said.
The procedure adhered to the highest ethical and medical standards, aligned with national laws and global guidelines on organ donation.
Dr. Qassim bin Saleh Al-Abri, Consultant Cardiac Surgeon at the Royal Hospital, emphasized the significance of the operation:
'The success of the first heart transplant performed entirely by Omani hands is an unprecedented achievement, the fruit of years of hard work, planning, and investment in national talent.'
Dr. Alaa bin Hassan Al Lawati, Head of the Cardiac Surgery Department at the National Heart Center, added that the transplant was carried out 'smoothly and with remarkable success,' showcasing Oman's advanced and integrated healthcare system.
New Organ Transplant Law Issued
Earlier this month, Royal Decree No. 44/2025 was issued to regulate the Transfer and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues. The law includes 36 articles across five chapters, outlining strict regulations to prevent organ trafficking and exploitation while ensuring the ethical and safe practice of organ donation.
Key provisions include:
A clear framework for living and deceased donations, including consent requirements and donor-recipient relationships.
A National Committee within the Ministry of Health to oversee policies, licensing, training, and public awareness.
A strict ban on the sale or purchase of organs, with heavy penalties, including imprisonment and fines up to OMR 100,000.
Prohibition of organ donations from children or vulnerable individuals without proper legal and ethical safeguards.
Accreditation requirements for medical institutions and practitioners conducting transplants.
Severe consequences, including life imprisonment and fines up to OMR 5 million, for those engaged in illegal or unethical transplant practices.
