A 54-year-old Italian tourist, who suffered a life-threatening aortic dissection while playing golf in Dubai, has fully recovered after undergoing a complex 12-hour emergency surgery at Saudi German Hospital Dubai (SGHD).
The tourist, M. Claudio, was on vacation when he experienced severe chest pain and collapsed on the golf course, requiring immediate medical intervention to prevent fatal internal bleeding.
Medical Emergency and Diagnosis
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Claudio was rushed to SGHD in critical condition with low blood pressure and severe instability.
- Doctors diagnosed him with Type A aortic dissection, a dangerous tear in the heart’s main artery that affects blood flow to vital organs and limbs.
- According to Dr. Bassil Al Zamkan, senior consultant cardiothoracic surgeon, an aortic rupture is a life-threatening condition that can cause massive internal bleeding, multi-organ failure, or sudden death if not treated immediately.
Complex 12-Hour Life-Saving Surgery
Dr. Al Zamkan, supported by a multidisciplinary team, performed a 12-hour surgery to:
- Repair the damaged aortic valve
- Replace the ascending aorta and part of the aortic arch
- Restore proper blood flow and reconstruct major blood vessels
The highly delicate operation required the expertise of anesthesiologists, ICU specialists, physiotherapists, surgical assistants, technicians, and nurses.
Risk Factors and Prevention
Dr. Al Zamkan emphasized that aortic dissections can occur without warning, though certain individuals are at higher risk, including:
- Patients with hypertension
- Those with a family history of heart conditions
- Individuals with Marfan syndrome, a genetic disorder affecting connective tissue
He advised that early detection through echocardiography for high-risk individuals can help prevent catastrophic outcomes and safeguard long-term health.
Full Recovery and Rehabilitation
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Within three weeks, Claudio made a full recovery and was discharged from the hospital.
- He safely returned to Italy, where he is now undergoing rehabilitation.
- In a message to Khaleej Times, Claudio expressed gratitude to the medical team for their efficiency and professionalism.
“The medical team was very accurate and efficient. They dealt with my health emergency quickly and precisely. I am now in full health, and I thank all the staff at the hospital, especially Dr. Bassil,” Claudio stated.
Hospital’s Commitment to Excellence
Dr. Ahmed Eissa, Regional CEO of Saudi German Hospital Group UAE, highlighted that Claudio’s successful recovery underscores the hospital’s commitment to advanced medical care, cutting-edge technology, and a dedicated healthcare team.
The swift medical response and expertise of the Saudi German Hospital Dubai team saved Claudio’s life, demonstrating the importance of advanced healthcare infrastructure in Dubai.
His full recovery after a complex surgical procedure highlights the critical role of timely medical intervention in preventing fatal cardiac emergencies.
