Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Performs UAEās First CSR Heart Procedure
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has achieved a major milestone in the nationās medical sector by performing the UAEās first Coronary Sinus Reducer (CSR) implantation. The minimally invasive procedure provides a new treatment option for patients suffering from refractory angina, a serious and persistent form of chest pain that continues even after traditional treatments like medication, stents, or bypass surgery.
The successful procedure marks a significant advancement in cardiac care within the UAE and reflects the countryās growing reputation as a regional leader in advanced medical treatments.
A New Lifeline for Patients With Persistent Chest Pain
Refractory angina is a challenging condition. Many patients live with frequent chest pain despite having undergone multiple interventions, leaving them with limited or no remaining treatment options. Although the condition may not always be immediately life-threatening, it can severely affect daily life, restricting physical activity and causing constant discomfort.
The introduction of the CSR device provides renewed hope for these patients. The implant works by improving blood flow to the heart muscle through the coronary sinus, a vein that collects blood from the heart. By slightly narrowing this vein, the pressure inside it increases, helping redirect more blood toward areas of the heart that need it most. Over time, this improves oxygen supply and reduces chest pain symptoms.
A Landmark Medical Achievement
The first CSR implantation in the UAE was performed at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi by Dr. Ronney Shantouf and Dr. Ashraf Al Azzoni, expert physicians from the hospitalās Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute. They worked alongside visiting international specialist Professor Tommaso Gori, one of Europeās leading experts in the CSR technique.
The procedure uses a minimally invasive catheter-based approach, typically through the jugular vein in the neck. This method avoids the need for open-heart surgery and is particularly beneficial for high-risk patients who cannot undergo further invasive procedures.
Dr. Shantouf explained, āMany patients with refractory angina feel that they have run out of options after multiple stents or even bypass surgery. The CSR gives us the ability to offer a safe and proven treatment that can significantly ease their symptoms. Most patients begin noticing gradual improvement in chest pain within weeks.ā
Strengthening Abu Dhabiās Role in Regional Heart Care
Dr. Georges-Pascal Haber, Chief Executive Officer of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, said the successful procedure highlights the emirateās growing leadership in specialized cardiac care.
āThis achievement reinforces Abu Dhabiās position as a hub for advanced cardiovascular treatment,ā he said. āOur team continues to push boundaries by combining world-class expertise with cutting-edge technology, all while keeping patients at the center of everything we do. Our mission is simple ā deliver the best possible outcomes right here in the UAE.ā
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is officially recognized as a Center of Excellence for Adult Cardiac Surgery by the Department of Health ā Abu Dhabi. The hospital has consistently introduced innovative technologies and minimally invasive procedures designed to improve patient outcomes and reduce recovery times.
Meeting the UAEās Growing Need for Advanced Heart Treatments
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the UAE, responsible for nearly 40 percent of all fatalities. Risk factors such as diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, sedentary lifestyles, and high blood pressure contribute to early onset of heart problems in many residents.
In this context, expanding access to advanced treatments like the CSR is critical. Dr. Al Azzoni emphasized that the new procedure fills an important gap in cardiac care.
āThe CSR provides an option for patients who were previously told they had no remaining treatment possibilities,ā he said. āIt enhances our ability to support individuals with complex and long-standing heart conditions.ā
A Step Forward for Heart Patients in the UAE
With the successful completion of the UAEās first CSR surgery, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has opened doors to a new chapter in heart treatment. Patients who have struggled for years with persistent chest pain now have access to an innovative and effective option that can dramatically improve their quality of life.
The accomplishment not only marks a milestone for the hospital but also reflects the UAEās ongoing commitment to adopting the worldās most advanced medical technologies. Through initiatives like this, the country continues to strengthen its position as a regional center for top-tier healthcare.
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