Wednesday 23 / July / 2025
Muscat: The spinal surgery team at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital (SQUH), part of the University Medical City, has successfully implemented three groundbreaking surgical technologies for treating spinal disorders and deformities – marking a regional first in specialised healthcare services. The integrated use of surgical robotics, 3D printing, and virtual reality within single procedures represents a qualitative leap in medical care, demonstrating the institution's commitment to adopting cutting-edge global medical technologies.
These advanced techniques have been applied in complex surgeries including scoliosis correction, spinal canal decompression, and spinal tumor resections. The University Medical City has become the region's first healthcare facility to simultaneously combine all three technologies in individual operations, establishing itself as a regional leader in specialized spinal surgery.
Dr. Hamad Al Far’ei, Consultant Orthopedic and Spinal Surgeon, stated: "This achievement marks a transformative development in Oman's spinal surgery capabilities. Our medical team's integration of three advanced technologies into unified procedures has significantly enhanced surgical precision while reducing risks and complications – directly improving treatment outcomes and patient recovery times."
The technological integration features Surgical robotics enabling ultra-precise instrument guidance during operations, improving safety outcomes while reducing procedure duration, 3D printing technology creating accurate anatomical models for surgical planning, particularly valuable in complex deformity cases and Virtual reality providing real-time, detailed cross-sectional imaging during operations for enhanced visual guidance
This strategic initiative aligns with Oman Vision 2040's healthcare objectives to develop an innovative, quality-driven health system utilizing national expertise.
Dr. Siham Salim Al Sinani, CEO of University Medical City, emphasised: "Implementing these advanced technologies strengthens public confidence in government healthcare services while elevating specialised care standards. This reflects our execution of national policies for healthcare development through localising modern medical technologies to deliver services meeting international benchmarks."
The achievement underscores Oman's growing capabilities in complex medical interventions while reducing dependence on overseas treatment referrals for spinal conditions. Hospital administrators confirm plans to expand these technologies across additional surgical specialties in coming years.
