In a landmark advancement for Oman’s medical sector, surgeons at Muscat’s Sultan Qaboos University Hospital have performed the nation’s first awake brain surgery, paving the way for more precise treatments of complex neurological conditions. The breakthrough procedure, known as an awake craniotomy, enables real-time monitoring of a patient’s cognitive and motor functions during tumor removal, significantly reducing risks to critical brain areas.
The surgery, reported by Oman’s Shabiba News Agency in collaboration with international media network TV BRICS, involved keeping the patient conscious throughout the operation. This allowed medical teams to assess speech, movement, and sensory responses, ensuring vital regions of the brain remained intact while a tumor located near functionally sensitive areas was excised. After several hours, the tumor was fully removed without complications, and the patient retained all critical neurological functions, according to the hospital’s statement.
Awake craniotomies are typically employed when tumors develop close to parts of the brain governing essential skills such as language, motor control, or perception. The technique minimizes post-operative deficits by allowing surgeons to adjust their approach based on immediate patient feedback. For Oman, the success marks a leap forward in neurosurgical capabilities, reflecting years of investment in specialized training and technology.
While such procedures are established in some countries, their introduction in Oman signals the growing sophistication of the nation’s healthcare infrastructure. The hospital emphasized that this milestone aligns with broader efforts to enhance access to advanced, minimally invasive treatments. Experts note that expanding these methods could reduce reliance on overseas referrals for complex cases, positioning Oman as a regional hub for innovative care.
The achievement underscores a global trend toward precision medicine, where real-time data and patient interaction during surgery improve outcomes. With neurosurgeons worldwide increasingly adopting awake techniques for tumors and epilepsy, Oman’s entry into this field highlights its commitment to aligning with international standards. As healthcare systems across the Gulf prioritize cutting-edge solutions, developments like this surgery demonstrate the potential for localized expertise to address pressing medical challenges.
