SEHA Tawam Hospital Successfully Treats Elderly Patient with Advanced Colorectal Cancer Surgery
A groundbreaking minimally invasive procedure demonstrates the hospital's expertise in managing complex cancer cases for high-risk patients
SEHA Tawam Hospital has achieved a significant clinical milestone by successfully performing advanced laparoscopic colorectal cancer surgery on an 81-year-old patient presenting with distal rectal cancer and multiple complicating factors, including obesity, cardiac disease, and a pacemaker.
Distal rectal cancer, affecting the lower portion of the rectum, represents one of the more technically demanding challenges in gastrointestinal surgery. The tumour’s deep pelvic location and proximity to surrounding vital structures typically necessitate meticulous surgical planning. In many complex cases, the procedure may require creation of a temporary or permanent stoma—an abdominal opening through which bodily waste exits into an external pouch.
In this instance, the surgical team employed advanced laparoscopic techniques, removing the tumour through small incisions whilst preserving normal bowel continuity. Despite the patient’s advanced age and medical complexity, the procedure was completed successfully without requiring stoma creation. The patient recovered rapidly, tolerating a normal diet and achieving discharge within three days of surgery.
Dr Mahdi Al Taher, Consultant Gastrointestinal and Oncologic Surgeon at Tawam Hospital, emphasised the significance of this outcome. “Distal rectal cancer presents among the most technically demanding conditions in colorectal surgery, particularly in elderly patients with multiple medical risk factors,” Dr Al Taher explained. “The minimally invasive approach permitted safe tumour removal whilst avoiding permanent stoma creation, thereby substantially enhancing the patient’s post-operative quality of life.”
The surgeon highlighted that advanced laparoscopic surgery delivers substantial patient benefits, including smaller surgical incisions, reduced tissue trauma, and expedited recovery periods. “This case underscores the importance of experienced colorectal teams, multidisciplinary coordination, and individualised decision-making when treating complex cancer cases,” he added.
The successful procedure reflects SEHA’s steadfast commitment to delivering specialised cancer care supported by advanced surgical expertise, comprehensive anaesthetic management, specialised operating room nursing, and coordinated perioperative support. Tawam Hospital’s demonstrated capability in managing complex colorectal cancer cases reinforces its position as a centre of excellence for evidence-based treatment pathways.
Through its comprehensive colorectal surgery services, SEHA continues strengthening access to specialised oncological care throughout Abu Dhabi and the wider United Arab Emirates, enabling patients to receive world-class advanced treatment within their home region.
Source: WAM