SEHA’s SKMC Surgical Team Achieves Life-Saving Operation on Rare Recurrent Cancer

Multidisciplinary team at SEHA’s Sheikh Khalifa Medical City successfully remove tumour estimated to be the size of a small apple

Abu Dhabi, UAE, 27 November 2023 - PureHealth, the largest healthcare platform in the Middle East, has successfully led on a highly complex surgery for a patient with recurrent colon cancer at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC). Under the directives of Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA), a subsidiary of PureHealth, the surgery was performed by colorectal surgeons, in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team, exemplifying the exceptional skills and dedication of the hospital’s commitment to deliver outstanding patient care.

The tumour had recurred after the patient had part of her large intestine removed and underwent chemotherapy to treat the cancer in her colon. Subsequent scans revealed the emergence of a large cancerous mass close to many of her major organs. The operation required the skills of vascular and colorectal surgeons, alongside a dedicated team of urology and radiology specialists.

Dr. Sara Al Bastaki, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon at SKMC and Division Chief of General Surgery, leads a multidisciplinary team of surgeons, and made the decision to proceed with emergency surgery stating it was the best option to save the patient’s life.

“Successfully removing such a rare tumour was extremely challenging. Our team at SKMC demonstrated exceptional expertise and dedication during the surgery. We take pride in our team's innovative approach, utilisation of advanced surgical techniques, and unwavering commitment to providing the highest quality of care for the most complex procedures. We, at SKMC, will continue to raise the bar and push boundaries in healthcare excellence and patient care in line with PureHealth and SEHA’s vision,” said Dr. Al Bastaki. 

The patient, Lolita Raymundo, said, “I was devastated when I learnt that my cancer recurred. Dr. Sara and her team explained my condition thoroughly, scheduled me for surgery, and provided exceptional care throughout the process. I am grateful for their kindness and support. I am able now to go back to my work and normal life.”

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that affects the colon and rectum and is the third most common cancer worldwide and in UAE also , accounting for around 10 per cent of all cancer cases. However, the incidence and impact of colorectal cancer can be significantly reduced by adopting primary prevention strategies such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and regular screening either colonoscopy every 10 years or FIT test annually as per DOH guidelines and world health organization .

Under PureHealth’s leadership, the SEHA healthcare network, including SKMC, is committed to elevating the standards of healthcare excellence through cutting-edge solutions and advancing the frontiers of medical science. The platform’s ultimate mission is to introduce the future of healthcare from the UAE to the global, fortifying the UAE nation's standing as a preeminent global healthcare hub.

To find out more about SEHA’s specialized clinic, or book an appointment, call 80050 or visit SEHA.ae. You can also book an appointment through the SEHA mobile app, or WhatsApp 02 410 2200.

To learn more, please visit www.purehealth.ae