Latest news with #KhoulaHospital
Observer
6 days ago
- Health
- Observer
Khoula Hospital establishes surgical programme for scoliosis
MUSCAT: Khoula Hospital has successfully established a comprehensive surgical programme for treating spinal deformities (scoliosis), with the first surgeries performed in 2012. The programme has seen significant progress in recent years, thanks to national efforts to localise these complex procedures. Dr Sultan bin Saif al Kalbani, Head of the Spine Unit at Khoula Hospital and Consultant in Orthopaedic and Spine Surgery, said that the programme achieved a qualitative leap with the introduction of early scoliosis treatment last year. This advancement, he affirmed, has enabled therapeutic intervention for children at younger ages, resulting in over 50 successful cases. He noted that such surgeries were previously performed outside Oman, imposing financial and psychological burdens on patients and their families. The localisation of these services has alleviated these challenges, with national medical teams now capable of performing complex procedures without the need for patients to travel abroad. Dr Al Kalbani added that this achievement places Khoula Hospital among the few centres in the Gulf and Middle East offering such advanced, precision surgeries using state-of-the-art techniques, including intraoperative nerve monitoring and modern spinal fixation systems. The hospital has also introduced advanced surgical navigation systems and robotic-assisted surgery, enhancing precision, reducing complications and improving surgical outcomes. Khoula Hospital is now one of the region's pioneering centres utilising these technologies in paediatric spine surgery. In research and documentation, he pointed out that the hospital has completed a comprehensive unit documenting its scoliosis treatment experience over the years, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance specialisation, training and scientific documentation. Currently, an innovative strategic research project is underway in collaboration with artificial intelligence technologies to develop early scoliosis screening methods in schools. This initiative aims to enhance early detection and reduce the need for complex surgical interventions in the future, he added. Dr Al Kalbani emphasised that this success results from collaborative efforts among doctors, technicians and healthcare administrators. Work is ongoing to expand the programme's scope and develop research and training initiatives to meet patient needs nationally and regionally. He affirmed that investing in national workforce training has been — and remains — key to this success, with medical, nursing and support staff receiving continuous training through workshops in Oman and abroad to ensure service quality and patient safety. Dr Al Kalbani noted growing public awareness about early scoliosis diagnosis and expressed pride in citizens' confidence in government healthcare institutions, particularly Omani professionals who have demonstrated their ability to provide advanced treatment services meeting global standards. On his turn, Dr Rashid bin Mohammed al Alawi, Director-General of Khoula Hospital, underlined the hospital's aspiration to become a regional reference centre for spine surgery, led by Omani professionals. This vision, he said, is being realised through continuous training programmes, workshops, conferences, local and international fellowships, and advanced research in spinal disorders and surgeries published in prestigious scientific journals. He stated that the hospital not only strives for medical excellence, but also prioritises patient-centred care. Expanding specialised services and adopting cutting-edge technologies, such as robotic-assisted surgeries, aim to alleviate patient suffering, accelerate recovery and enable them to return to a better quality of life, he added. — ONA
Zawya
24-06-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Cold plasma technology introduced in Oman
Neoplas Argon Jet was launched after successful trials and a landmark symposium attended by over 150 healthcare professionals, including 80 Omani doctors specialising in infection control and paediatric surgery from hospitals under the Ministry of Health as well as from the private sector. A major advancement in wound care and infection management technology was celebrated at an event attended by top officials from the Ministry of Health with the official launch of the Neoplas Argon Jet Cold Plasma treatment in Oman. Oman has a 17 per cent increase in diabetic cases annually, prompting the medical community to explore innovative treatment methods. The CE MDR-approved German technology was introduced following successful clinical evaluations at Khoula Hospital and Oman International Hospital. To mark the launch organised by Alfarsi National Enterprises, a high-profile medical symposium was held in Muscat, drawing over 150 doctors and healthcare professionals from across the country. The event brought together leading experts from Europe and Oman for a full day of scientific exchange, practical insight, and a live demonstration of the device. Fatma al Adawi, a Podiatrist at Oman International Hospital, shared that the symposium was a valuable experience. The science behind cold plasma therapy shows promise, especially for chronic wound management. The groundbreaking Neoplas Argon Jet utilises cold atmospheric argon plasma to accelerate wound healing, stimulate tissue regeneration, and inactivate pathogens without pain or side effects. Its use in treating diabetic foot ulcers, chronic wounds, dermatological lesions and post-surgical infections has shown remarkable results in clinical settings at MoH hospitals. Saju George, Managing Director of Alfarsi National Enterprises, stated, "This launch of advanced technology for diabetic foot ulcers and road accident victims marks a new chapter in how we approach wound care in Oman." The Neoplas Argon Jet is the result of years of rigorous scientific collaboration involving neoplas med GmbH, the Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology (INP), University Medical Center Greifswald, Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin, and various research and industrial partners across Europe. The symposium featured renowned speakers including Dr Christian Seebauer, Dr Aleksandra Szlachcic, and Prof. Dr Ralf Lobmann, who shared their expertise in plasma-based wound care, dermatology, and diabetic foot ulcers, respectively. Dr Klaus Ruhnau, COO of Neoplas Med GmbH, also addressed the audience, highlighting the global momentum behind cold plasma therapy.
Zawya
19-06-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Oman: Doctors at Khoula Hospital reattach severed hand in complex surgery
Muscat – A specialised surgical team at Khoula Hospital has successfully performed a rare and complex procedure to reattach a fully amputated hand and two fingers for an expatriate worker who suffered a severe injury while on duty. The 14-hour operation was led by Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed al Wahaibi, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon and Head of the Hand and Microsurgery Department at Khoula Hospital. The procedure is considered a significant step in advanced microsurgery in Oman. Dr Wahaibi said the success of the surgery was due to two key factors: the immediate first aid given at the site of the incident and the correct preservation of the severed hand and fingers according to international medical standards. 'Swift and safe transfer of the patient to Khoula Hospital's replantation centre was critical to restoring sensory and motor function,' he said. The team carried out bone fixation, reconnected small blood vessels, removed damaged tissue, and sutured ligaments and arteries under a microscope. 'Such operations demand high precision and advanced techniques, showing the progress of Omani medical expertise,' Dr Wahaibi added. After surgery, the patient's condition stabilised without complications such as infection or clotting. Early signs indicate promising recovery of sensation and movement, and the patient was discharged soon after the procedure. Dr Wahaibi emphasised the importance of workplace safety, urging workers to follow safety measures, wear protective gear and ensure machinery is switched off during maintenance. He also highlighted the need for quick response in trauma cases. 'Proper first aid, correct handling of the amputated part and fast transfer to a specialist centre can be crucial for successful treatment and recovery,' he said. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
14-06-2025
- Health
- Observer
'Your blood donation means life to others'
Muscat: June 14 is observed as World Donor Day and in Oman, the Department of Blood Bank Services under the Ministry of Health has been conducting a campaign on the importance of donating blood. Community drives were also organised on the same day. On this day, blood banks around the world celebrate the heroes of life who give hope with blood. The theme for World Blood Donor Day 2025 is 'Blood connects us all: share a blood donation, save a life.' 'With every bag of blood you donate, you give a new chance to three people eagerly awaiting hope and bring a smile to their families' faces,' stated the campaign from Khoula Hospital. More than 100 million donations are collected annually in 170 countries. The Sultanate of Oman is one of the leading countries in blood donation campaigns. 'The Sultanate of Oman is a pioneer in efforts to promote a culture of donation and enhance safe stocks,' stated Oman's Blood Bank Services. Regular donations help save lives, support medical operations and care for mothers and children. Sami al Zedjali, who has a career in the banking sector; and enjoys biking and travelling, has been donating blood for 20 years. 'It has become such a natural part of my life that I hardly think twice about it. What motivates me? Knowing that a small act on my part can literally save someone's life, even if I never meet them. There's a quiet joy in that,' he said. When asked what he would like to tell others, he replied, 'It's easier than you think (the needle pinch lasts seconds; the impact lasts a lifetime). Your blood is always needed — someone, somewhere, is praying for it right now. You'll walk out feeling lighter (in your heart, not just your veins!)." The campaign on Saturday emphasised that in every bag of blood you donate, you give a new chance to three people eagerly awaiting hope and draw a smile on the faces of their families. There are 12,700 donation centres worldwide, but there is always a demand. Joining in the initiative, the Indian Social Club conducted a blood donation drive at the central blood bank in the Wilayat of Bausher; and the campaign was inaugurated by G V Srinivas, Ambassador of India to the Sultanate of Oman. Earlier this month, the Central Blood Bank announced that it needed 12 platelet donors to meet the needs of patients and support health institutions. Platelet donation is a new hope for patients who need you. Some of the conditions that have to be considered before donating blood are the facts that the weight of the donor must not be less than 50 kg, the donor's age must be between 18 and 65 years old; and blood pressure and hemoglobin must be within the normal range. The blood bank is open for donors from Saturday to Thursday from 8 am to 8 pm; and on Friday from 8 am to 2 pm.
Times of Oman
18-05-2025
- Health
- Times of Oman
First degenerative scoliosis surgery performed at Nizwa Hospital
Nizwa: A specialised medical team from the Spine Unit at Khoula Hospital, in collaboration with a medical team at Nizwa Hospital, successfully performed the first surgical procedure to treat a case of degenerative scoliosis at Nizwa Hospital. This achievement is part of ongoing efforts to enhance medical cooperation and localize specialised healthcare services in the governorates' health institutions. Dr. Sultan Saif Al Kalbani, Head of the Spine Unit at Khoula Hospital, Consultant in Orthopedic and Spine Surgery, and leader of the medical team, explained to Oman News Agency (ONA) that the surgery was performed on a patient suffering from an abnormal curvature of the spine, using the latest surgical techniques. He clarified that degenerative scoliosis occurs in elderly patients due to the deterioration of cartilage, joints, and ligaments in the back, leading to curvature and severe back pain during movement. He noted that this type of scoliosis differs from the scoliosis that affects children. Dr. Al-Kalbani emphasised that this accomplishment is the result of joint coordination between Khoula Hospital, the national reference center for spine surgeries, and Nizwa Hospital, in line with the Ministry of Health's strategy to enhance specialised services across various governorates of the Sultanate of Oman and reduce pressure on central referral hospitals. He pointed out that such procedures were previously conducted outside the governorate, imposing financial and psychological burdens on patients and their families. However, localising these services helps alleviate these challenges and promotes equitable healthcare distribution among governorates. He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between health institutions to exchange expertise and build national competencies capable of performing complex surgeries. Dr. Al-Kalbani noted the Spine Unit's commitment to advancing spine surgery services in accordance with the latest global practices, with a focus on continuous training and upskilling of medical personnel. It is worth mentioning that Khoula Hospital serves as a centre for treating all types of scoliosis.
