- A minimally invasive surgery at Burjeel Medical City removed part of the lung through a single 3 cm incision
- Performed using the da Vinci Xi system, with all three to four robotic arms operating through the same incision
Abu Dhabi, 23 March 2026: Burjeel Medical City has successfully performed the UAE’s first uniportal robotic lobectomy, a minimally invasive approach that combines robotic technology with clinical expertise, strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading destination for healthcare innovation focusing on prediction, prevention, and early intervention. The milestone procedure, performed on Jean Erika, a 37-year-old patient with stage one lung cancer, redefines care for patients with early-stage cancer by opening new possibilities and improving outcomes like never before.
Recurring Dry Cough Reveals Cancer
The story of Jean Erika highlights the importance of medical evaluation when symptoms persist. She never imagined that her persistent dry cough, a symptom usually linked to common respiratory conditions, was a possible early sign of underlying cancer. “I had a recurring cough for about three weeks. Despite completing a course of antibiotics, the cough didn’t subside,” recalls Jean, who has been living in Abu Dhabi for the past eight years. She works as a dental nurse in a private dental center.
A CT scan with dye and a biopsy confirmed carcinoma. Her condition was discussed in a Multidisciplinary Tumor board meeting where it was decided that the best way forward was surgery. Following this, she consulted Dr. Taj Mohammed Fiyaz Chowdhry, Consultant Thoracic Surgeon, who suggested a uniportal robotic 3 cm lobectomy.
“It is a procedure where a part of the lung is removed through a single 3 cm incision, with all three or four robotic arms going through the same incision,” says Dr. Taj, an expert in uniportal robotic thoracic surgery.
Jean felt anxious about surgery, especially with a robot performing it. “But the doctor explained that robotic surgery would mean faster recovery and smaller wounds, which helped me feel reassured,” says Jean, who prepared herself for the surgery with the support of the medical team as well as her friends. “The entire team, including the anesthesiologist, met with me before the surgery and explained everything clearly. They made me feel comfortable and confident.”
Minimally Invasive Surgery, Faster Recovery
The surgery led by Dr. Taj lasted about four hours. He was accompanied by Dr. Nermeen Said Hassanin, Consultant Anesthesia, and Mr. Renukesh, Robotic Surgery Nurse Specialist. The team used the da Vinci Xi system, which provides precision, control, and minimally invasive access. While Dr. Chowdhry operated on the console, an experienced assistant supported the patient’s side. The anesthesia team ensured the lung was isolated and the patient remained stable.
The surgery went smoothly without complications. “Normally, patients are discharged five to seven days after a traditional lobectomy. However, she was fit for discharge just two days after surgery due to minimal dissection and reduced surgical stress,” says the doctor.
“I realized how advanced UAE healthcare has become. As a nurse, I really appreciate how robotic surgery causes minimal scarring and less pain, and allows faster recovery, letting patients return to their normal lives sooner. At BMC, everything was efficient, and the facilities were excellent. The staff were very supportive and accommodating. They took care of all my needs and made sure I felt comfortable throughout,” says Jean, who returned to work one month after surgery.
Breakthrough in Early-Stage Cancer Care
According to Dr. Chowdhry, this approach is best suited for early stages of cancer. “For Jean, this method was chosen because she had early-stage cancer with no significant lymph node involvement and had not undergone chemotherapy or immunotherapy. “It is generally preferred not to perform this surgery on patients who have previously received chemotherapy or with bulky lymph node disease, as these factors may make it technically difficult to perform through uniportal,” adds the doctor.
BMC has been at the forefront of its robotic program since the deployment of the da Vinci system. This accomplishment reflects the strength of its multidisciplinary teams in advancing minimally invasive surgery and highlights the vision behind establishing a world‑class advanced thoracic surgery department within the facility.
(ENDS)
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