SEHA's SKMC and SKC Achieve Medical Milestone by Successfully Administering Radioactive Iodine Therapy to Treat Cancer Patient on Dialysis

This marks a significant breakthrough in administering radioactive iodine therapy to a patient requiring hemodialysis (HD) while in isolation

Abu Dhabi-05 June 2024 – The Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA), a subsidiary of PureHealth, the largest healthcare platform in the Middle East, has successfully treated a 54-year-old patient with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) undergoing dialysis for thyroid cancer using radioactive treatment. This marks a significant breakthrough in administering radioactive iodine therapy to a patient in need of hemodialysis (HD) during isolation, setting a new precedent for innovative, collaborative and safe healthcare practices.

The operation was a collaborative effort by specialists from SEHA’s Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC) and SEHA Kidney Care (SKC), bringing together experts in Nuclear Medicine, Endocrinology, Kidney Care, Dialysis services, Environmental Health & Safety, and engineering. This multidisciplinary approach was essential for addressing the unique challenges faced by the patient's condition. Key contributors to this pioneering achievement include Dr. Asif Moin, Consultant Physician in Nuclear Medicine from the Department of Radiology at SKMC, Dr. Mohamed Al Ali, Consultant Otorhinolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery at SKMC, Dr. Hessa Bahroon, Consultant Physician in Endocrinology at SKMC, in collaboration with Dr. Stephen Holt, Professor Director and CEO at SKC and his team.

Radioactive iodine therapy, a cornerstone treatment for thyroid cancer post-surgery, requires precise dosing based on patient risk stratification. The decision for the patient to undergo a Total Thyroidectomy followed by postoperative radioactive iodine therapy was unanimously agreed upon by the Thyroid Cancer Multidisciplinary Team. This strategic choice aimed to effectively remove and treat the thyroid cancer, with a special focus on ensuring the safety and efficacy of dialysis during the patient's period of radioactive isolation. Towards this goal, Senior Nuclear Medicine Technologist and Radiation Protection Officer, Ms. Thoraia Awad, played a vital role in training the SKC team on radiation safety and completing the dialysis procedure post-radioactive iodine treatment.

Dr. Holt said: "This successful collaboration between SKMC and SKC showcases a significant leap forward in medical care, reflecting our deep commitment to navigating the complexities of treating high-risk patients. By merging our collective expertise and resources, we've established a new benchmark in healthcare, demonstrating that patient safety and cutting-edge treatment can coexist seamlessly.”

This achievement not only ensured the patient's successful treatment without complications or radiation safety issues, but also highlighted SEHA and PureHealth's commitment to addressing the complexities of delivering high-quality medical care in demanding situations. This initiative demonstrates their unwavering commitment to healthcare innovation and the well-being of both patients and staff. It underscores SEHA and PureHealth's role as leaders in healthcare advancements both within the UAE and internationally.

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