Riyadh is the site of the newly launched Saudi Telesurgery program, established by King Saud University Medical City in partnership with Seha Virtual Hospital, Zain KSA, and EDGE.
According to SPA, the first phase of the program consisted of seven surgical procedures conducted over three days. These operations spanned thoracic, general, bariatric, and obstetric and gynecologic specialties. The first day included four consecutive cases involving complex challenges to demonstrate telesurgery technology capabilities.
The program aims to create a Saudi national protocol for telesurgery by utilizing digital, technical, and medical expertise. It is not restricted to a specific number of procedures.
Future applications for these technologies include emergency cases, humanitarian situations in difficult-to-reach locations, and major gatherings such as the Hajj season. The program supports Saudi Vision 2030 goals regarding digital transformation, the development of the healthcare sector, and the use of modern medical technologies to build a sustainable healthcare system.
Who are the partners involved in the Saudi Telesurgery program? The program was launched by King Saud University Medical City. It is operated in partnership with Seha Virtual Hospital, Zain KSA, and EDGE, which is a company that specializes in robotic solutions and devices.
What occurred during the first phase of the telesurgery program? The first phase involved seven surgical procedures performed over a period of three days. These procedures covered thoracic, general, bariatric, and obstetric and gynecologic specialties, with the first day featuring four consecutive complex cases.
What are the long-term goals and applications of this program? The program aims to develop a Saudi national protocol for telesurgery using medical and digital expertise. It will provide access to surgical expertise in difficult-to-reach locations for humanitarian and emergency cases, as well as during the Hajj season.
How does the program align with Saudi Vision 2030? The program supports Saudi Vision 2030 by advancing digital transformation and leveraging modern medical technologies. These efforts are intended to develop the healthcare sector and build an innovative and sustainable healthcare system.