World’s first robotic brain tumour removal sets new benchmark for neurosurgery in Saudi Arabia (VIDEO)

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 22 — The King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) in Riyadh has achieved a major medical milestone after successfully performing the world’s first robotic intracranial tumour resection, marking a new global standard in neurosurgical precision and recovery.

The one-hour procedure was carried out on a 68-year-old man suffering from severe headaches and loss of concentration. Surgeons removed a 4.5-centimetre brain tumour using robotic arms, with the patient discharged fully conscious within 24 hours, nearly four times faster than conventional recovery periods for similar surgeries.

KFSHRC chief executive officer, Dr Majid Alfayyadh said the success highlights the hospital’s commitment to innovation and its role in shaping the future of global medicine.

“This achievement aligns perfectly with our vision of integrating advanced technology and patient-centred care to redefine healthcare delivery,” he said in a statement.

Meanwhile, its consultant of skull base tumours, Dr Homoud Aldahash, who led the operation, said the robotic system enabled unprecedented precision and safety in navigating critical neurovascular structures.

“The patient’s same-day discharge, fully conscious and without complications, represents a new benchmark for neurosurgical innovation,” he added.

The procedure used robotic arms guided by a 3D optical system and image-guided navigation technology to ensure precise tumour removal while protecting vital brain regions. Hospital officials credited the robotic approach with minimising surgical trauma and enhancing recovery outcomes.

The breakthrough builds on KFSHRC’s record of pioneering robotic surgeries, including the world’s first robotic heart and liver transplants, further strengthening its position as a leader in robotic and minimally invasive medicine.

KFSHRC has been ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa and 15th globally among the world’s top 250 academic medical centres for 2025.

It has also been named the most valuable healthcare brand in the Middle East by Brand Finance and listed by Newsweek among the World’s Best Hospitals and Best Smart Hospitals. — Bernama