a day ago
HMC successfully performs bariatric surgery using magnetic anastomosis technology
DOHA: In a groundbreaking medical achievement, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has successfully performed a bariatric surgery using magnetic anastomosis technology which uses medical magnets to safely and accurately connect parts of the small intestine without the need for surgical stapling or sutures.
This advanced surgery has shown promising initial results in terms of response and improved health for two patients who underwent the surgery, according to HMC's announcement.
Both procedures were performed at HMC's Aisha Bint Hamad Al Attiyah Hospital by a specialized surgical team at Hamad Medical Corporation's (HMC) National Bariatric Center, rendering it one of the first of its kind in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Both patients, both in their thirties, were given modified magnetic duodenal switches using the Modified Duodenal Switch (MDS) technique.
The procedure underscores HMC's commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies and innovations in bariatric surgery.
Director of HMC's National Bariatric Center, Dr Mohamed Al Kuwari said: "The new technique, known as the Magnet Anastomosis System and approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reflects HMC's commitment to delivering advanced treatments that meet the highest international standards," adding that the procedure "eliminates the need for permanent metal implants in the body, which contributes to further enhancing patient safety."
Dr Al Kuwari pointed out that "Modified duodenal switch surgery is considered one of the most effective procedures for weight loss in patients with a Body Mass Index (BMI) over 50, or in those who did not achieve satisfactory results with other procedures such as sleeve gastrectomy, as well as patients with type 2 diabetes."
For his part, Senior Consultant Bariatric and Robotic Surgery at HMC Dr Moataz Basha said: "This innovative technique significantly simplified the surgical procedure, especially during the delicate stage of creating intestinal connections, which is traditionally one of the most complex steps. The new technique uses two small medical magnets, each with a diameter of no more than 4cm. The first magnet is swallowed orally by the patient and monitored via radiographic imaging to confirm its arrival in the small intestine."
He added that at a later stage, under anesthesia, the second magnet is introduced with a minor surgical procedure. The two magnets are aligned and connected via imaging, which results in a natural digestive connection being formed without the traditional but more invasive surgical intervention. The magnets naturally exit the body after approximately three weeks, requiring no additional procedures.
Dr Basha emphasized that this surgical achievement highlights the expertise of HMC's medical teams and reinforces the Corporation's position as a leading regional center in the field of bariatric surgery.
