15-02-2025
Dubai: Italian tourist who collapsed while playing golf now fully recovered, undergoing rehabilitation
What was supposed to be a birthday celebration turned into a life-threatening emergency for a 54-year-old Italian tourist who suddenly experienced severe chest pain and collapsed while playing golf in Dubai more than a month ago.
M. Claudio, who came for a relaxing vacation, was rushed to Saudi German Hospital Dubai (SGHD), where he was diagnosed to have Type A aortic dissection — a dangerous tear in his heart's main artery, affecting blood flow to organs and limbs, that required immediate surgical intervention.
He was placed on mechanical ventilation to support respiratory function as he was in an extremely unstable critical condition with low blood pressure.
'Aortic rupture is a life-threatening condition that can lead to massive internal bleeding, multi-organ failure, or sudden death if not treated immediately,' Dr Bassil Al Zamkan, senior consultant cardiothoracic surgeon told Khaleej Times, adding: 'Claudio was fortunate to have reached SGHD with the necessary expertise and advanced facilities to manage such a complex case.'
Dr Al Zamkan performed a highly complex 12-hour surgery which involved repairing the aortic (heart) valve and replacing the ascending aorta and a portion of the aortic arch to restore proper blood flow and reconstruct major blood vessels.
Dr Al Zamkan said Claudio's condition can occur suddenly and without warning, though they are more likely in patients with a family history of similar issues, as well as those with hypertension or Marfan disease (an inherited disorder that affects connective tissues).
'Early detection through echocardiography for individuals in these high-risk groups can help prevent potentially catastrophic outcomes, safeguarding the health and well-being of our patients,' he added.
The operation lasted for half a day, noted Dr Al Zamkan, who was supported by a multidisciplinary team, including anesthesiologists, ICU specialists, physiotherapists, surgical assistants, technicians, and nurses.
Thanks to their efforts, Claudio fully recovered within three weeks, and safely returned to his home country, Italy; he is now undergoing rehabilitation.
'The medical team was very accurate and efficient. They dealt with my health emergency quickly and accurately. I am now in full health and I thank all the staff at the hospital, especially Dr Bassil,' Claudio said in a message forwarded to Khaleej Times.
'Claudio's successful recovery reflects our commitment to medical excellence, cutting-edge technology, and a dedicated team working tirelessly to achieve the best outcomes,' added Dr Ahmed Eissa, regional CEO of Saudi German Hospital Group UAE.
