Remarkable Medical Success at Al Mouwasat Hospital Dammam: Saving a Newborn with a Rare and Massive Abdominal Mass

Remarkable Medical Success at Al Mouwasat Hospital Dammam: Saving a Newborn with a Rare and Massive Abdominal Mass

The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Al Mouwasat Hospital – Dammam has achieved remarkable medical success by managing a rare and complex case of a newborn diagnosed prenatally with a large abdominal mass. The case was handled under the supervision of Dr. Weam Al Sidawi – Consultant Neonatologist, through a multidisciplinary approach involving neonatology, pediatric surgery, and obstetrics teams to ensure accurate planning and family reassurance. 

Prenatal Diagnosis and Postnatal Challenges 

Fetal MRI revealed a massive abdominal mass on the right side, requiring comprehensive postnatal evaluation to rule out associated anomalies. Immediately after birth, the baby suffered from severe respiratory distress, significant abdominal distension, and inability to tolerate feeding or discontinue oxygen support. 

Advanced Diagnostic Evaluation 

Ultrasound scans confirmed bilateral hydronephrosis, more pronounced on the right side. A VCUG test, performed under the supervision of Dr. Mohamed Al Jalouli – Consultant Pediatric Surgeon, ruled out posterior urethral valve obstruction. Kidney function and urine output were within normal limits. 

Further MRI imaging revealed a multicystic dysplastic kidney (MCDK) on the right side measuring an extraordinary 11 cm, along with an additional cyst on the left side measuring 4.5 cm. Such an unusually large size is extremely rare and often requires surgical removal due to pressure on adjacent organs. 

Minimally Invasive Intervention 

After thorough discussion among the multidisciplinary team and consultation with the family, the decision was made to perform ultrasound-guided cyst drainage under general anesthesia, with readiness for nephrostomy tube placement if required. 

The procedure, expertly carried out by Dr. Ahmed Taher – Consultant Interventional Radiologist, was completed with exceptional precision and without complications. The intervention immediately relieved intra-abdominal pressure, resulting in significant improvement in the baby’s condition and stabilization of vital signs—without the need for kidney removal at this stage. 

This case demonstrates the importance of early diagnosis, multidisciplinary collaboration, and advanced interventional techniques in saving the lives of newborns with critical conditions. It reflects the high level of care and medical excellence provided by the teams at Al Mouwasat Hospital – Dammam, in line with international standards.