UAE Marks First Robotic Mastectomy Surgery Success

For the first time within the Cleveland Clinic global network, a robotic mastectomy has been successfully performed at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, part of the M42 group. This milestone introduces a groundbreaking, minimally invasive surgical option for breast cancer patients in the UAE, helping to reduce the burden of the disease.

What is a Robotic Mastectomy?

A mastectomy traditionally involves the surgical removal of breast tissue to treat breast cancer. The traditional approach requires large chest incisions, which can lead to visible scarring, nerve damage, and longer recovery periods. In contrast, robotic mastectomy utilizes advanced robotic technology to make a small incision under the armpit, significantly reducing scarring and preserving nerve function around the breast area. This innovative procedure allows for the removal of tissue and, if needed, immediate reconstruction in a single session.

A Revolutionary Step in Breast Cancer Care

Dr. George Haber, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, shared, “The introduction of robotic mastectomy at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi represents a transformative step in breast cancer care. By pioneering this procedure in the UAE, we’re offering our patients a more precise, minimally invasive option, ultimately reducing recovery time and preserving their quality of life. Robotics has already proven to be a game-changer in surgery, and we’re proud to be leading this advancement in the region.”

Precision and Faster Recovery with Robotic Technology

Under the guidance of Dr. Ahmad Matalkah, the breast surgery program lead at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, the groundbreaking robotic surgery was performed using the Da Vinci single-port robotic system. This technology enhances the surgeon’s control, providing greater precision during surgery. It helps minimize complications such as bleeding and skin damage, reducing recovery time and scarring. According to Dr. Matalkah, “Robotic breast surgery offers immense benefits globally, such as improved precision, minimized scarring, and faster recovery times. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is proud to be the first in the region to offer this pioneering technique to breast cancer patients."

Restoring Confidence with Reconstruction

Dr. Tibor G Kovacs, a staff physician in the Breast Surgery Program, explained how the robotic procedure also benefits patients seeking breast reconstruction. “Robotic mastectomy enables us to restore a patient’s breast shape using implant-based reconstruction, which not only provides physical benefits but also emotional relief. The nipple-sparing mastectomy and immediate reconstruction are done with the utmost precision using state-of-the-art robotic technology, allowing patients to heal faster and with minimal side effects,” Dr. Kovacs added.

Expert Training for World-Class Care

As robotic mastectomy is still relatively new globally, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s surgical team underwent extensive training under renowned robotic surgeons from around the world to ensure the highest level of expertise and care.

Eligibility and Considerations for Robotic Mastectomy

While robotic mastectomy offers numerous benefits, not all patients are candidates for this procedure. Dr. Matalkah emphasized that eligibility is determined by several factors, including tumor size, body size, tumor location, and the patient’s overall health. “Each patient’s case is carefully assessed to ensure that the best surgical approach is chosen,” he noted.

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi: A Leader in Robotic Surgery

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has long been at the forefront of robotic surgery, offering advanced treatments across a range of specialties, from transplants to complex cardiac surgeries. The introduction of robotic mastectomy underscores its commitment to improving healthcare technology in the region. By continuously integrating cutting-edge technology with clinical expertise, the hospital continues to deliver world-class care to patients in the UAE and beyond.