Muhammad Al Ketbi, a 28-year-old Emirati heart disease patient, recently underwent a successful heart transplant at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi after four months of waiting. Diagnosed with familial cardiomyopathy, a heart disease he had been battling for over a decade, Al Ketbi was initially in a critical state of cardiogenic shock. He was then put on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support, followed by a biventricular assist device (BiVAD) to stabilize his condition.
Dr. Nadya Almatrooshi, a staff physician for cardiology, explained the severity of Al Ketbi’s condition upon arrival at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. With multi-organ failure affecting his liver and kidneys, a heart transplant was deemed necessary but challenging due to his unstable state. The medical team decided to install a BiVAD to improve his overall condition while waiting for a suitable donor heart.
After spending four months in the ICU on BiVAD, Al Ketbi’s condition improved significantly with dedicated care, physical therapy, and nutrition. The transplant surgery, led by Dr. Feras Bader and supported by a multidisciplinary team, was successful. Following the six-hour procedure, Al Ketbi’s body accepted the donor heart, and he was moved out of the ICU to a cardiology ward where he was advised to follow a regimen of immunosuppressants to prevent rejection.
Al Ketbi’s successful heart transplant and recovery highlight the expertise and dedication of the medical team at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. His case is a testament to the hospital’s ability to tackle complex cardiac conditions through a coordinated effort across specialties. Al Ketbi expressed gratitude to his caregivers, family, and friends for the high standards of care he received during his four-month stay in the ICU, culminating in a new lease on life after the transplant.
The milestone marked by Al Ketbi’s procedure is significant for the UAE, as it is the first instance where a patient has successfully undergone three consecutive stages of treatment for heart disease. With his recovery, Al Ketbi can now lead a normal life free from the burden of the disease that plagued him for years. His experience serves as a beacon of hope for other patients facing similar challenges, showcasing the advancements in medical technology and expertise available in the region for treating complex cardiac conditions.
