Hidden surgery in Riyadh: Advanced technology for women's health without scars

A qualitative leap in women's surgery in the Kingdom

Dr. Yazid Al-Yousef, a consultant in obstetrics, gynecology, laparoscopic surgery, and robotics, announced the localization of minimally invasive surgery, also known as single-incision laparoscopic surgery, in Riyadh. This development represents a significant medical achievement in the Saudi healthcare sector, placing the Kingdom among the leading countries offering this type of minimally invasive surgery, which was previously limited to a few global centers, such as South Korea.

What is hidden surgery and how does it work?

Minimally invasive surgery is the latest advancement in the field of minimally invasive surgery. Unlike traditional surgery, which requires a large abdominal incision, or even conventional laparoscopic surgery, which requires several small incisions, this innovative technique relies on performing the entire procedure through a single incision no larger than 1.5 cm, made inside the navel. Through this small incision, the surgeon inserts a high-definition camera and all the necessary surgical instruments to perform a wide range of complex gynecological procedures, such as hysterectomy, removal of ovarian cysts and fibroids, treatment of ectopic pregnancy, and tubal ligation.

Historical context: From open surgery to unilateral laparoscopy

The world of surgery has undergone a radical transformation over the past few decades, beginning with the shift from open surgery with large incisions to laparoscopic techniques in the late 20th century, which revolutionized the field with smaller scars and shorter recovery times. Today, "minimally invasive surgery" represents the next generation of this evolution, aiming to minimize the surgical impact on the body. This global trend toward minimally invasive surgery is not solely focused on cosmetic aspects, but primarily on improving patient outcomes and reducing potential complications.

Multiple benefits for the patient and the healthcare system

Dr. Al-Yousef explained that the benefits of this technique extend far beyond aesthetics. By completely concealing the scar within the navel, patients experience a psychological satisfaction rate of approximately 80%, compared to other surgical procedures. Furthermore, the technique reduces postoperative pain levels by 30% to 50%, as it avoids cutting the major abdominal muscles. This positively impacts recovery time, allowing patients to leave the hospital in a day or less and return to their normal lives and family responsibilities more quickly, thus reducing the economic and social burden. The risk of complications such as infection, bleeding, or incisional hernia is also significantly lower.

Strategic importance and its alignment with Vision 2030

Localizing such advanced technologies in the Kingdom is of paramount strategic importance. It not only reduces the need for citizens to travel abroad for treatment but also strengthens Saudi Arabia's position as a leading healthcare hub in the region, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030 to develop the health sector and improve quality of life. Furthermore, integrating this technology with robotic surgery opens new horizons of precision and safety, ensuring the best possible outcomes for patients and fostering a culture of innovation within the Saudi healthcare system.