In an exclusive interview, Dr. Isam Sayed Mahmoud Salih, a leading vascular neurology consultant at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, discusses the institution’s pioneering role in stroke and cardiovascular care, its adoption of groundbreaking technologies, and its vision for advancing global medical excellence.
Nestled in the heart of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City (SSMC) stands as a leading institution in advanced medical care and innovation.
With a deep-rooted commitment to excellence, SSMC has garnered global recognition, particularly for its comprehensive stroke and cardiovascular care.
Dr. Isam Sayed Mahmoud Salih, a vascular neurology consultant, chairs the Neurology Division and directs the Stroke Division at SSMC.
With his expertise and the institution’s unwavering commitment to patient care, SSMC continues to set benchmarks in medical excellence.
In this interview, Dr. Isam Sayed Mahmoud Salih sheds light on the institution’s transformative journey, groundbreaking technologies, and vision for the future.
Recognition as a Catalyst for Patient Trust
The recognition of SSMC as a Comprehensive Stroke Center by the American Heart Association and its accreditation as a Centre of Excellence by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi has profoundly bolstered patient trust. These accolades, according to Dr. Salih, are more than just acknowledgments; they signify adherence to the highest standards of care.
“Patients see these recognitions as assurances that they will receive quality and efficient care for complex conditions,” he explains. Central to this trust is the establishment of a 24/7, state-of-the-art stroke unit. Staffed by specialized medical professionals and equipped with advanced diagnostic tools, the unit exemplifies SSMC’s dedication to innovative and comprehensive stroke care.
The availability of cutting-edge treatments and highly trained experts strengthens confidence among patients and their families. Knowing that SSMC’s medical team is equipped to handle the most challenging cases fosters an environment of trust and reassurance, making SSMC a preferred choice for critical stroke care.
Advanced Technologies: A Leap Forward in Patient Outcomes
SSMC’s investment in advanced technologies is setting new benchmarks in medical care. In June 2022, the hospital launched the Biplane Angio Suite, a revolutionary facility enabling multidisciplinary teams to perform urgent angiograms and mechanical thrombectomies. This innovation is instrumental in rapidly identifying and removing blood clots in ischemic stroke patients.
“Timely intervention is critical,” Dr. Salih emphasizes. “Restoring blood flow to the brain quickly significantly improves long-term outcomes.”
Complementing the Angio Suite is the Philips Azurion 7 B20/15 biplane image-guided therapy system, which enhances the precision of interventions. Additionally, advanced neuroimaging tools such as CTA, MRI/MRA, and perfusion scans enable early diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.
SSMC also boasts specialized neurocritical beds and advanced monitoring devices, ensuring patients receive immediate, high-quality care. “These technologies not only improve patient outcomes but also elevate the overall experience by delivering personalized and effective treatments,” says Dr. Salih.
Swift and Coordinated Stroke Care
The cornerstone of SSMC’s stroke care is its emphasis on speed and precision. The Biplane Angio Suite plays a pivotal role in ensuring rapid diagnosis and intervention.
“Stroke is a race against time,” Dr. Salih notes. “Our protocols are designed to act swiftly and minimize brain damage.”
Specialized multidisciplinary teams work in harmony, streamlining the process from diagnosis to treatment. This coordination ensures that every aspect of stroke care is executed efficiently. By leveraging advanced tools and maintaining a highly trained staff, SSMC minimizes delays and enhances the quality of care, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Academic Collaborations: Shaping the Future of Healthcare
SSMC’s vision extends beyond immediate patient care; it is deeply invested in shaping the future of healthcare. Its robust academic structures, symbolized by the ‘Education Shield,’ foster continuous learning and collaboration among healthcare professionals.
“We believe in developing new experts to carry forward SSMC’s legacy,” Dr. Salih shares. This mission is supported by five educational centers that host various initiatives, ensuring staff are well-versed in the latest medical advancements.
A standout initiative is the Centre of Medical Innovation and Simulation. This facility provides advanced simulation training, offering realistic clinical scenarios that enhance the skills and knowledge of healthcare professionals. By prioritizing education and training, SSMC not only improves its internal capabilities but also contributes to the global medical community by nurturing well-trained experts.
Supporting International Patients and Innovating for the Future
SSMC’s reputation extends far beyond the UAE, attracting international patients seeking specialized care. One of its groundbreaking initiatives is the study of innovative rehabilitation strategies using a novel device suit for stroke patients. These studies aim to enhance mobility, reduce pain, and improve overall well-being, making SSMC a global destination for advanced care.
The integration of robotic surgeries further sets SSMC apart. These minimally invasive procedures redefine recovery times and patient outcomes, offering cutting-edge solutions for intricate medical challenges.
SSMC’s commitment to innovation is also evident in its adoption of 13 AI tools. These tools improve diagnostic accuracy and clinical decision-making, particularly in medical imaging. “For instance, MD Brain, an AI technology, automates MRI analysis, expediting diagnostics and treatment decisions,” Dr. Salih explains.
These advancements underline SSMC’s dedication to staying at the forefront of medical innovation. By continuously enhancing its services and integrating new technologies, SSMC reaffirms its position as a leader in global healthcare.
A Legacy of Excellence
Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City is not only a medical facility; it is a hub of innovation and excellence. With a strong foundation in advanced technologies, academic collaboration, and patient-centered care, SSMC is setting new benchmarks in stroke and cardiovascular care, ensuring that patients receive the best possible outcomes, no matter where they come from.
SSMC’s journey is a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence in healthcare. From earning prestigious recognitions to adopting groundbreaking technologies and fostering a culture of continuous learning, SSMC exemplifies what it means to lead in modern medicine. Under the guidance of experts like Dr. Isam Sayed Mahmoud Salih, SSMC continues to redefine healthcare standards, offering hope and healing to patients from around the world.
