King Faisal Specialist Hospital in Riyadh conducts world’s first robotic brain tumor surgery
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The King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) in Riyadh has achieved a global first by performing a fully robotic intracranial tumor resection.
The procedure involved removing a 4.5-centimeter brain tumor from a 68-year-old man who had been experiencing severe headaches and loss of concentration. Using robotic arms guided by a 3D optical system, surgeons completed the one-hour operation with image-guided navigation technology that ensured precise tumor removal while protecting vital areas of the brain.
The patient was discharged fully conscious within 24 hours. This recovery time is nearly four times faster than that of traditional brain surgeries.
Dr. Homoud Al-Dahash, KFSHRC consultant for skull base tumors and lead surgeon, said, “the robotic system provided exceptional precision and control, which enabled surgeons to navigate critical neurovascular structures with a high level of safety".
“The patient’s same-day discharge, fully conscious and without complications, represents a new benchmark for neurosurgical innovation”, he added.
KFSHRC CEO Dr. Majid Al-Fayyadh linked the milestone to the hospital’s ongoing transformation journey.
“This achievement reflects KFSHRC’s growing role in shaping the future of global medicine", said Dr. Majid.
“It aligns perfectly with our vision, where innovation and patient-centered care define the future of healthcare".
Before the advent of robotic neurosurgery, similar procedures required manual removal under a surgical microscope, where precision depended heavily on human steadiness and visual clarity. Robotic systems now provide enhanced instrument stability, matching global standards of safety and precision in neurosurgical care.
This procedure adds to KFSHRC’s expanding portfolio of robotic surgical breakthroughs. The institution previously performed the world’s first robotic heart and liver transplants.
KFSHRC has been ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa and 15th globally among the world’s top 250 academic medical centers for 2025. It was also recognized as the most valuable healthcare brand in the Middle East by Brand Finance 2024 and listed among Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals 2025, Best Smart Hospitals 2025 and Best Specialized Hospitals 2026.