A specialized medical team at Khoula Hospital in Muscat, Oman, recently performed a groundbreaking operation to stabilize and correct the spine of an Omani girl suffering from scoliosis. The team used extendable magnetic rods along the length of the spine, a procedure which took 4 hours to complete. Dr. Sultan bin Saif bin Ali Al Kalbani, head of the spine unit at Khoula Hospital and consultant orthopedic and spine surgeon, led the medical team in this innovative procedure. The rods are extended clinically every 3 months in the clinic via a remote control device. This type of treatment marks a significant advancement in the treatment of scoliosis in children, preventing further deterioration and minimizing its impact on vital organs such as the lungs. It also supports the growth of the spine and reduces the need for repeated surgeries.
Previously, patients with this type of scoliosis had to seek treatment abroad as this type of operation was not available in Oman. Dr. Al Kalbani highlighted the complexity of the procedure and the success of the medical team in achieving this milestone at Khoula Hospital. In addition to the spinal stabilization procedure, the team also performed the first operation of its kind at the hospital by removing cartilage from the nerve canal using the laparoscopic technique without connecting the vertebrae. Typically, this type of cartilage removal would require connecting and stabilizing the vertebrae using traditional methods. The introduction of arthroscopic surgeries for the spine in the day unit at Khoula Hospital is a significant advancement that leads to quicker recovery times for patients, allows them to return to their normal lives sooner, and helps to reduce waiting lists for surgical procedures.
Dr. Al Kalbani emphasized the importance of raising awareness about scoliosis to help identify symptoms early on. Scoliosis is a lateral tilt of the spine that is often diagnosed during adolescence. Although the exact causes of scoliosis are not fully understood, genetic factors can play a role. The condition can vary in severity, with some cases worsening as the child grows, potentially leading to disability. Common symptoms of scoliosis include unequal shoulders, one shoulder blade protruding more than the other, unequal waist, one hip being higher than the other, protrusion of one side of the rib cage, and protrusion of one side of the back when leaning forward.
Dr. Rashid bin Mohammed Al Alawi, Director General of the General Directorate of Khoula Hospital, commended the success of the medical team in performing advanced treatments within Oman, eliminating the need for patients to travel abroad for medical care. The accomplishment reflects the hospital’s investment in medical infrastructure and the expertise of its medical professionals. This achievement serves as a foundation for future advancements in healthcare, ensuring that patients receive the necessary and advanced medical care that meets the needs of society. The success of this operation highlights the capabilities of Khoula Hospital and its commitment to providing top-quality healthcare services to the community.
