Al Khobar – Mouwasat Hospital
Mouwasat Hospital in Al Khobar continues to strengthen its position as a leading center in pediatric urology and advanced robotic surgery, following the successful treatment of a 4-year-old girl who was suffering from recurrent flank pain and severe renal discomfort caused by a congenital ureteral obstruction.
Accurate Diagnosis Through Advanced Imaging
The young patient was referred to Mouwasat Hospital after undergoing a series of diagnostic studies, including:
- Ultrasound imaging
- CT scan
- Nuclear medicine renal scans conducted in the hospital’s Nuclear Medicine Department
The results revealed a significant narrowing of the ureter, the tube responsible for transferring urine from the kidney to the bladder. This obstruction led to hydronephrosis, reduced kidney function, and repeated pain episodes, increasing the risk of recurrent urinary infections.
Congenital ureteral obstruction is considered one of the more complex pediatric urological conditions, and if left untreated, it may gradually progress to kidney damage or even renal failure.
Robotic Repair of the Ureteral Obstruction
Thanks to the expertise of Dr. Abdulrahman bin Abdulkarim Al Muhrej, Consultant in Urologic Oncology, the robotic system allowed for high-precision suturing and delicate handling of the tissues, ensuring an optimal reconstruction outcome. The procedure was completed smoothly, and the child was able to leave the hospital the next day, resuming eating and walking with only minimal pain.
Why Robotic Surgery Is the Preferred Technique
Robotic-assisted surgery has become the gold standard for managing complex ureteral conditions due to several advantages:
- Exceptional precision in tissue handling
- Smaller incisions and reduced postoperative pain
- Lower blood loss
- Faster recovery time
- Higher success rates, especially in delicate pediatric cases
Dr. Al Muhrej has performed numerous robotic repairs for ureteral obstruction in both children and adults, achieving consistently excellent clinical outcomes.
Expanding the Role of Robotic Surgery in Urology
Robotic systems are now widely utilized at Mouwasat Hospital for a variety of urological procedures across all age groups, including the following:
- Partial and radical nephrectomy (kidney removal)
- Adrenal gland surgery
- Prostate surgery
- Bladder surgery
This reflects Mouwasat Hospital’s commitment to incorporating advanced surgical technology and providing patients with advanced, minimally invasive treatment options.
Important Medical Advice
Dr. Al Muhrej stresses the importance of early evaluation when kidney dilation is detected, as determining the cause promptly is crucial to preserving kidney function. Not all cases require surgery, but timely consultation with a specialist helps guide appropriate management and prevent long-term complications.