Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City Performs Emergency Robotic Urology Surgery

Pioneering Robotic Procedure Sets New Standard for Complex Kidney Care in the Region

Abu Dhabi, UAE, 16 April 2026 –Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC), a flagship hospital in the UAE for serious and complex care and a subsidiary of PureHealth, the largest healthcare group in the Middle East, has performed an emergency robotic urology surgery.

This case represents an exceptional milestone in the field of robotic urology. A focused medical literature review reveals only a limited number of comparable emergency robotic procedures performed worldwide, typically at internationally renowned cancer centres.

The procedure addressed a complex kidney problem in a 71- year-old-patient, requiring urgent repair of the ureteropelvic junction, following an injury to upper ureter during an elective surgery. The urology surgical team rapidly deployed the robotic system within just six hours, enabling a prompt and precise intervention.  The operation was successful, achieving a stable repair without intraoperative issues. The patient was discharged after only three days with no adverse outcomes, and a postoperative computed tomography (CT) scan confirmed excellent healing at the repair site.

Dr. Abdulqader Almessabi, Chief Medical Officer of SSMC, commented: “Our pioneering performance of the emergency robotic urology surgery exemplifies SSMC’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of healthcare innovation while prioritising patient-centred excellence. This achievement not only highlights our team’s rapid response and technical prowess but also reinforces SSMC’s role as a leader in complex care, ensuring advanced treatments are accessible locally and setting new benchmarks for the UAE and beyond.”

In support of this, the lead surgeon highlighted the direct benefits for patients. Dr. Ather Abdelbaky, Acting Chair of the Urology Division and Robotic Surgeon at SSMC added: “This procedure marks a significant leap forward in emergency urological care at SSMC. By harnessing robotic technology for urgent reconstructive repairs, we achieve greater accuracy, reduce potential complications, and accelerate patient recovery. It’s inspiring to witness how this approach can transform outcomes for patients facing complex kidney challenges, bringing cutting-edge solutions right here in the UAE.”

By successfully delivering this complex intervention, SSMC has demonstrated its ability to provide advanced robotic care even in high-stakes emergency settings. The achievement underscores the remarkable expertise, speed, and coordination of SSMC’s surgical and perioperative teams, and further establishes the hospital as a pioneer of innovation in the region.