Dubai: 13-Month-Old Infant Gets Liver Transplant In City's First Such Surgery

A 13-month-old infant successfully underwent liver transplant surgery - the city's first such intervention - at King's College Hospital London in Dubai with the support of Al Jalila Foundation.

Malek was born with a rare condition known as biliary atresia, which caused his health to deteriorate despite an earlier surgical procedure to connect his liver to his intestines. He was also diagnosed with a congenital heart defect (atrial septal defect).

He was referred to King's College Hospital in Dubai by Al Jalila Children's Hospital, following the cardiac repair procedure after the baby's father donated a portion of his liver.

The complex and delicate surgery was led by Professor Mohamed Rela, one of the world's foremost liver transplant surgeons, and was carried out by a multidisciplinary team at King's College Hospital London in Dubai.

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Al Jalila Children's Hospital provided specialised medical care to both the infant and his father and also performed cardiac surgery to repair a hole in the child's heart. Meanwhile, Al Jalila Foundation covered the complete medical costs for the infant Malek, including comprehensive pre- and post-operative care provided at Al Jalila Children's Hospital.

Dr Younis Kazim, Acting CEO of the Health Regulation Sector at the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), said:“The successful liver transplant for a 13-month-old infant represents an unprecedented medical achievement for Dubai. It reflects the healthcare system's readiness and ability to handle the most complex cases with efficiency and professionalism in a dynamic environment that fosters excellence and supports high-value healthcare investments.”

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