SEHA's Sheikh Khalifa Medical City Conducts Complex Heart Surgery on 3-Month-Old Baby

Upon her arrival at SKMC, the infant weighed just 2.3kg and was unable to breathe without the aid of a mechanical ventilator.

Abu Dhabi-UAE, 28th May, 2024 – The Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA), a subsidiary of PureHealth, the largest healthcare platform in the Middle East, achieved a medical feat at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC) by successfully performing a complex heart surgery on a 3-month-old named Silina, diagnosed with Transitional Atrioventricular Canal, a complex congenital heart disease. This achievement highlights SEHA’s capabilities in managing complex medical cases and reinforces SKMC a centre of excellence for paediatric cardiac surgery, and a leading pediatric healthcare centre in the UAE. 

Silina's journey to recovery began, where she battled the complexities of her condition, experiencing severe symptoms including shortness of breath since birth, recurrent admissions to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) due to heart failure and recurrent chest infections requiring mechanical ventilation. 

Upon her arrival at SKMC, Silina weighed just 2.3kg and was unable to breathe without the aid of a mechanical ventilator. Her symptoms were further complicated by aspiration pneumonia due to choking while feeding, a factor that hindered her ability to gain weight. Dr Antoine Girgius, Specialist Paediatric Cardiology, and Dr Aleksandr Omelchenko, Specialist Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon, led the surgical team, navigating these challenges to provide specialised care.

Dr Girgius said: “Silina's condition was critical. Weighing just 2.3kg, her case presented a unique challenge. However, we were determined to provide her with the best care possible. The successful repair not only exceeded our expectations but also showcased the precision required for such delicate interventions on small infants.”

Dr Omelchenko said: "Approaching Silina's surgery, we knew the stakes were high, given her fragile state and the complexity of her condition. The intricate nature of this procedure demanded a blend of surgical precision and innovative techniques tailored for her diminutive size. The successful outcome of the surgery is a testament to our team's expertise and the collaborative spirit at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City. This case reinforces our commitment to pushing the boundaries of pediatric cardiac care and offering new hope to families facing similar challenges."

Silina's mother expressed her gratitude to the SKMC medical team saying: "Looking at Silina now, reflecting on the fact that she wouldn't be here if not for the high level of professionalism and expertise at SKMC, I 

know I made the right choice. I am beyond grateful to all the caregivers who went above and beyond to save my baby's life and return her to my arms, safe, sound, and thriving." 

Through its subsidiaries, including SEHA, PureHealth is spearheading healthcare innovation, and offers leading medical services. This commitment is positioning the UAE as a preferred destination for healthcare, solidifying its status as a global leader in healthcare.

To find out more about SEHA’s specialized clinic, or book an appointment, call 80050 or visit SEHA.ae. You can also book an appointment through the SEHA mobile app, or WhatsApp 02 410 2200.

To learn more, please visit www.purehealth.ae