Successful colon resection using the "Sonsen" technique on a two-year-old child
successfully King Faisal Specialist Hospital performed colon resection using the Sonson technique robotic. This technique involves removing a section of the colon lacking nerve cells and then reconnecting the healthy section. The procedure was performed on a two-year-old child weighing approximately 10 kilograms who suffered from Hirschsprung's disease, a rare congenital disorder that impairs normal bowel function, limiting its ability to perform its tasks and potentially leading to intestinal obstruction.
These procedures are highly complex when performed on children due to the narrow pelvis and limited surgical space, as well as the proximity of vital nerves, muscles, and blood vessels related to excretory function to the surgical site. This necessitates extreme precision in handling surrounding tissues and preserving their integrity to ensure stable postoperative outcomes.
Approved surgical procedures
The Sonsen technique is a recognized surgical procedure for treating this condition. It addresses the underlying cause by removing the affected part and allowing the healthy part to function normally.
The use of robotic surgery in this procedure enabled highly precise intervention and a clearer view of the surgical site.
This achievement reflects King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre's commitment to adopting and utilizing advanced medical technologies in treating complex cases, thereby enhancing the quality of specialized care and improving its outcomes.
Top 250 Institutions
It is worth mentioning that King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre was ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa and 12th globally in the list of the top 250 academic healthcare institutions worldwide for 2026, and the most valuable healthcare brand in the Kingdom and the Middle East, according to Brand Finance for 2025.
It was also included in Newsweek magazine’s lists of the best hospitals in the world for 2025, the best smart hospitals for 2026, and the best specialized hospitals for 2026.
