KUWAIT CITY, Aug 3: A Kuwaiti surgical team has emerged as a shining example of excellence in pediatric oncology, performing highly complex and delicate tumor surgeries on children with outstanding success. Their achievements have notably reduced the need to send young patients abroad for treatment, marking a significant milestone in Kuwait’s healthcare capabilities.

In alignment with Kuwait Vision 2035’s objective to enhance national medical expertise, the team at Ibn Sina Hospital’s Pediatric Surgery Department is delivering world-class care that rivals international centers. Over the first quarter of this year, they successfully conducted 15 major tumor-removal surgeries in children, collaborating closely with various Ministry of Health hospitals.

Among the most remarkable cases was the surgical removal of a large kidney tumor from a seven-day-old infant. Another complex operation involved excising liver tumors from a one-year and eight-month-old child, performed in cooperation with surgeons from the Liver Surgery Unit at Al-Amiri Hospital.

Dr. Ismail Taqi, Head of Pediatric Surgery at Ibn Sina Hospital, told Al Jarida, “Our surgical outcomes are comparable to the best global centers and strictly follow internationally recognized protocols.” He added, “Thanks to the dedication of our team, we have drastically reduced the number of patients needing treatment abroad, reflecting the success of these highly delicate surgeries and the full recovery of our patients.”

Dr. Taqi explained that managing pediatric tumors requires careful consideration of several factors including the patient’s age, possible genetic syndromes, tumor location, and rate of growth. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment according to international guidelines remain essential to improving outcomes.

Unlike adult cancers, pediatric tumors differ significantly in diagnosis, treatment approaches, and recovery rates, which tend to be higher in children. Upon suspicion of a tumor, pediatricians consult a specialized multidisciplinary team comprising oncologists from the National Bank of Kuwait Hospital, histology experts at Al-Sabah Hospital, and pediatric radiologists and surgeons at Ibn Sina Hospital. The team then devises a comprehensive diagnostic and treatment plan based on cutting-edge global research.

A meeting of all involved departments follows to implement protocols and ensure the patient’s family is fully supported and informed throughout the treatment journey.

Dr. Taqi highlighted that in recent years, Kuwait has achieved remarkable outcomes in pediatric cancer care, with superior diagnostic and treatment services that have positively impacted the reliance on overseas medical referrals.

“We are committed to advancing pediatric medicine following the Ministry of Health’s strategic plans, continuously upgrading our capabilities to keep pace with the latest global developments,” he said.

One of the most sensitive cases involved a newborn diagnosed with a kidney tumor just one week after birth, despite prenatal ultrasounds indicating healthy kidneys. The rapid tumor growth in the final weeks of pregnancy posed unexpected challenges. After thorough assessments of the infant’s overall condition and renal function, as well as genetic testing to rule out hereditary cancer syndromes, the medical team devised a treatment plan.

“The emotional toll on the family was immense, balancing joy with fear and uncertainty,” Dr. Taqi recounted. “However, continuous communication and trust-building between the medical team and the family fostered hope.” The surgery was fully successful, and the baby recovered without the need for chemotherapy, requiring only follow-up care at the Pediatric Oncology Unit of the National Bank Hospital.

Dr. Taqi emphasized the critical role of involving families as active members of the care team, noting that children often cannot articulate their symptoms or feelings. Families, together with dedicated nursing staff, who provide round-the-clock observation during hospitalization, are best positioned to monitor and report changes in the child’s condition.

“The nursing staff’s dedication and professionalism are vital, and they work closely with families to ensure continuity of care after discharge,” he added.

The Kuwaiti pediatric oncology team’s accomplishments stand as a testament to the country’s growing medical expertise and unwavering commitment to providing the highest standards of care for its youngest and most vulnerable patients.