In a monumental stride for healthcare in Abu Dhabi, Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital has performed a groundbreaking laparoscopic restorative proctectomy and J-pouch surgery, marking a significant development in the management of ulcerative colitis (UC).

The procedure was deftly executed by leading surgeons Dr Sara Al Bastaki and Dr Fadel Shabeeb, epitomising the hospital's commitment to cutting-edge medical innovation.

The patient, a 29-year-old suffering from debilitating symptoms including persistent diarrhoea and abdominal pain resistant to high-dose biologics, demonstrates the potential of surgical intervention when conventional treatments falter.

Dr Al Bastaki acknowledged the exigency of the situation, explaining, "Despite optimum doses of biologics, the patient’s symptoms remained uncontrolled, and surgery was necessary.

In cases like this, surgery is often the best option, especially as UC increases the risk of colorectal cancer every decade after diagnosis."

The intricacies of the operation required meticulous preparation, involving stabilisation, albumin boosting, and stringent haemoglobin level maintenance.

Conducted under general anaesthesia, the procedure spanned eight hours, during which the medical team removed the entire colon and rectum, crafting a J-shaped pouch from the small intestine to function as a new reservoir.

Dr Shabeeb elaborated on the sophistication of the surgery: "This kind of surgery is considered one of the most major in colorectal surgery.

Only specialised centres around the world carry out these procedures due to their complexity and the high level of expertise required."

Post-operatively, the patient was facilitated with an ileostomy to safeguard the surgical connection, prior to its reversal.

He was discharged in commendable condition just five days post-surgery and three days post-ileostomy reversal.

He continues to receive diligent monitoring and will engage in regular follow-ups, including pouchoscopy surveillance over the ensuing months.

The successful recovery process highlights the expertise at Mediclinic Airport Road Hospital, underscoring the UAE’s growing stature in healthcare excellence.

Under the vigilant care of Dr Al Bastaki and Dr Shabeeb, the patient’s journey towards recovery stands as an inspiring testament to the relentless pursuit of medical advancements in the region, offering renewed hope for UC patients contemplating surgical solutions.

Mediclinic’s achievement aligns seamlessly with Dubai's vision of fostering a world-class healthcare infrastructure.

As the nation progresses on this trajectory, such landmark medical accomplishments reinforce its leadership in adopting and executing state-of-the-art healthcare practices.