Thumbay Group expands specialized care hub in Fujairah with historic spine surgery milestone

UAE—Thumbay Hospital Fujairah has successfully performed the first reported Awake Percutaneous Transforaminal Endoscopic Discectomy and Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PETLIF) in the Northern Emirates using an advanced expandable titanium cage.

The image-guided, minimally invasive procedure marks a significant milestone in the region’s spine surgery services and expands access to advanced treatment closer to home.

The surgery was carried out on a 40-year-old patient suffering from severe sciatica caused by an L4-L5 disc herniation.

The patient had endured persistent pain for 14 months and had failed to respond to conservative treatment.

Surgeons completed the entire procedure through a 16 mm incision while the patient remained fully awake, eliminating the need for general anaesthesia.

Within minutes of the operation, the patient reported complete relief from the debilitating leg pain and was able to walk independently in the recovery area.

The small incision and rapid mobilisation highlighted the advantages of modern minimally invasive spine surgery over conventional open procedures.

Real-time patient feedback enhances surgical precision

Unlike traditional spinal fusion surgery, the patient remained conscious throughout the operation and communicated with the surgical team in real time.

This allowed surgeons to continuously monitor neurological function while reducing the physiological stress and potential risks associated with general anaesthesia.

As a result, patients may experience fewer complications, shorter hospital stays, and a quicker return to their daily activities.

The procedure was led by Dr. Hillol Kanti Pal, Consultant Neurosurgeon at Thumbay Hospital Fujairah, with support from anaesthesiologists Dr. Azharuddin and Dr. Ravindra.

“What stood out in this case was not just the technology but the patient himself,” said Dr. Pal.

“He stayed awake throughout the procedure, talking with us as we worked and telling us how his leg felt in real time. That feedback is invaluable during spine surgery. Seeing him walk out of recovery free from pain after more than a year was immensely rewarding.”

Expanding advanced healthcare services

Mr. Akbar Moideen Thumbay, Vice President of the Healthcare Division at Thumbay Group, said the achievement reflects the group’s commitment to making advanced medical care accessible across the Northern Emirates.

“Our goal has always been to bring world-class healthcare closer to the communities we serve so patients no longer need to travel long distances for highly specialised treatment,” he said.

“We will continue investing in advanced technology, skilled professionals, and innovative techniques that improve patient outcomes.”

The procedure comes as Thumbay Hospital Fujairah continues to strengthen its specialist services.

Just days ago, the hospital celebrated its 19th anniversary by launching a Respiratory Medicine Department, opening a Well Woman Clinic, and introducing the Thumbay Kids Privilege Card to expand preventive and family healthcare services.

The hospital also recently joined a group of private healthcare providers that signed memoranda of understanding with the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention to strengthen collaboration on emergency preparedness and ensure continuity of healthcare services during national crises.

Patients experiencing chronic back pain, sciatica, or disc-related disorders are encouraged to seek specialist assessment to determine whether minimally invasive spine surgery is an appropriate treatment option.