Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has achieved a medical first in the United Arab Emirates, performing the nation’s inaugural robotic-assisted Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction on a cancer survivor. The procedure, a complex microsurgical undertaking, offers a less invasive choice to customary breast reconstruction methods following mastectomy, a common treatment for breast cancer-the most frequently diagnosed cancer among women in the UAE [[1]].By utilizing advanced robotic technology,surgeons aimed to minimize recovery time and improve outcomes for patients undergoing this critical reconstructive surgery [[3]]. This milestone underscores the growing sophistication of reconstructive surgery options available in the region [[2]].
Abu Dhabi’s Cleveland Clinic has performed the United Arab Emirates’ first robotic-assisted Deep Inferior Epigastric Perforator (DIEP) flap breast reconstruction surgery on a breast cancer survivor, marking a significant advancement in women’s health and reconstructive surgery.
The procedure, completed recently, combines robotic technology with advanced microsurgical expertise, offering a less invasive option for patients seeking natural-looking breast reconstruction following mastectomy. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women globally, and also the most prevalent among women in the UAE.
Traditionally, DIEP flap surgery – considered the gold standard for breast reconstruction using the patient’s own tissue – requires lengthy incisions in the abdominal wall, potentially leading to abdominal weakness, hernias, longer recovery times, and post-operative pain. To mitigate these risks, a team at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi adopted a minimally invasive approach utilizing robotic assistance, after determining the patient was a suitable candidate.
The pioneering surgery was led by Dr. Ravi Gorinayan, Dr. Ahmed Matalka, and Dr. Mario Scherbino, along with a team of specialists in plastic surgery, breast surgery, anesthesiology, and nursing, within the hospital’s robotic surgery and breast reconstruction programs. Using the robotic system, surgeons were able to harvest tissue from the abdomen through small incisions while preserving the integrity of the abdominal muscles and surrounding tissues. This tissue was then used to reconstruct the breast, utilizing the patient’s own natural tissue.
“This surgical milestone reflects the level of healthcare advancement in the UAE,” said Dr. George-Pascal Haber, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. “At Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, we combine global expertise with the latest technologies to deliver care that was previously only available abroad. Performing the UAE’s first robotic-assisted DIEP flap breast reconstruction demonstrates the progress we’ve made and our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible here in Abu Dhabi.”
The robotic technology allowed for precise dissection of blood vessels in the abdomen, minimizing damage to the abdominal wall and contributing to a faster recovery and reduced post-operative pain for the patient. Three-dimensional imaging and the robot’s precise instruments were key to the success of the delicate procedure.
“Robotic assistance allows us to operate with greater precision and reduces many of the side effects we see with traditional DIEP flap breast reconstruction surgery, which remains the current gold standard,” explained Dr. Gorinayan, a consultant in the Institute of Integrated Surgical Specialties and chair of the Department of Plastic Surgery at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi. “The surgery was complex and highly precise, and was completed without any complications. We believe this represents the future of reconstructive surgery, offering patients less invasive solutions that reduce pain, abdominal issues, and recovery time. It’s remarkable to be part of this significant achievement and to accomplish it for the first time in the UAE.”
The hospital says this innovative robotic-assisted surgical technique sets a new standard for breast cancer recovery, offering survivors renewed hope and compassionate care, and enhancing quality of life after treatment. The case highlights the growing adoption of robotic surgery in complex reconstructive procedures.
