KFSHRC Performs Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty on Kidney Transplant Patient

In a groundbreaking medical achievement for the region, the King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) in Riyadh has successfully performed an Endoscopic Sleeve Gastroplasty (ESG) on a patient who had previously undergone a kidney transplant. This complex case required meticulous management of immunosuppressive medications and the prevention of complications that could jeopardize the transplanted organ.

 According to a KFSHRC press release, this procedure marks a significant advancement in providing safe treatment solutions for transplant recipients, aiming to improve graft survival and enhance quality of life.

 It highlighted that ESG differs from surgical sleeve gastrectomy in that it requires no abdominal incisions, which is crucial for transplant patients. Instead, it uses an endoscope inserted through the mouth to suture the stomach internally, effectively reducing its volume and enabling the patient to lose weight and improve overall health.

 The procedure aimed to address obesity and metabolic issues, which are leading factors that can negatively impact the health of a transplanted kidney, increase cardiovascular risk, and reduce long-term patient outcomes.

 The procedure was performed by a multidisciplinary team of medical experts, led by Consultant in Adult Transplant Gastroenterology and Hepatology Dr. Ehab Abufarhaneh.

 "KFSHRC has been ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa and 15th globally in the list of the world’s top 250 Academic Medical Centers for the third consecutive year and recognized as the most valuable healthcare brand in the Kingdom and the Middle East, according to the 2025 Brand Finance rankings. Additionally, it was included in the World’s Best Smart Hospitals list for 2025 by Newsweek magazine," the release stated.