Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi sets new brain treatment mark

Post by : Jyoti Singh

Photo: Reuters

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Sets New Standard in Brain Aneurysm Care. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has reached a historic medical milestone by introducing a new and advanced treatment for brain aneurysms. The hospital has become the first in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to adopt the Artisse Intrasaccular Flow Modulator a device designed to treat aneurysms in the brain through a safer and less invasive method. This achievement not only strengthens the hospital’s reputation as a leader in neurological care but also highlights Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a global hub for advanced medical innovation.

Recognised by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi as a Centre of Excellence for stroke care Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has set a new benchmark in healthcare. The adoption of this new technology proves the hospital’s ongoing commitment to patient safety, medical advancement, and cutting-edge treatment methods.

Understanding Brain Aneurysms

To fully understand the importance of this development, it is important to know what a brain aneurysm is. A cerebral aneurysm happens when a weak spot develops in a blood vessel in the brain. This weak spot can form a bulge or balloon-like swelling. If the aneurysm bursts, it can cause severe bleeding in the brain, known as a subarachnoid haemorrhage which is a serious type of stroke.

Traditionally, treating aneurysms required open brain surgery a highly invasive and risky procedure. Patients had to undergo long recovery periods, and complications were always a concern. Over the years, new approaches such as coiling and stenting reduced some of the risks, but treating aneurysms—especially those with wide necks—remained a big challenge.

• This is where the Artisse device has transformed the way doctors treat the condition.

• The Artisse Intrasaccular Flow Modulator – A Game-Changing Device

The Artisse device is a unique mesh structure that can be placed directly inside the aneurysm through a minimally invasive procedure. The process begins with inserting a thin tube, called a catheter, through the patient’s blood vessels—usually from the groin or arm. Using advanced 3D imaging and angiograms, doctors guide the catheter to the aneurysm in the brain.

Once in position, the Artisse device is carefully placed inside the aneurysm. It fills the bulge and prevents blood from flowing into it, which greatly reduces the chance of rupture. Unlike traditional methods that use multiple coils, this device works with a single, intricately designed mesh that stays permanently in place. This gives long-term protection and eliminates the need for major surgery.

The procedure can take between two to eight hours depending on how complex the aneurysm is. After treatment, patients undergo follow-up scans at three and six months to make sure the aneurysm is properly sealed.

The first patient treated at the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi showed excellent results. A three-month scan confirmed the aneurysm was successfully closed, showing how effective and safe the device is.

Why This Is a Breakthrough

This technology represents a significant leap forward for brain aneurysm treatment in the MENA region. For decades, patients had to either travel abroad for such advanced treatments or face limited options locally. Now, with Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi adopting this technology, patients across the region can access world-class treatment close to home.

One of the key benefits of this method is how minimally invasive it is compared to open surgery. Patients face less risk, recover faster, and experience fewer complications. It is particularly effective for wide-neck aneurysms, which are often the hardest to treat.

Voices from the Leaders

Dr Fayeza Al Yafie, Executive Director of the Healthcare Quality Sector at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, praised the achievement:

Centres of Excellence in Abu Dhabi continue to affirm their commitment to enhancing the healthcare system by providing specialised care and using the emirate’s advanced infrastructure. Abu Dhabi’s environment encourages innovation, research, and the use of cutting-edge technologies. We congratulate Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi on this milestone.

Dr Khalil Zahra, Staff Physician in Neurosurgery at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, explained how this new device changes the landscape of neurological care:

The introduction of this technology enhances our ability to treat complex aneurysms and shows our commitment to bringing the latest medical advancements to patients. By combining this device with our multidisciplinary care approach, we ensure our patients receive the best possible outcomes.

Impact Beyond Abu Dhabi

The hospital’s adoption of the Artisse device not only benefits patients in the UAE. It sets an example for the entire MENA region, proving that advanced healthcare solutions can be developed and delivered locally.

Dr Zahra added that the device also opens doors for future research and innovation:

This technology is a springboard for further progress in our field. As we collect more patient data, we will contribute valuable knowledge to the global neurosurgical community, further solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position in healthcare innovation.

The long-term insights from patient outcomes will help refine treatments, improve devices, and inspire new techniques for managing complex brain conditions.

A Collaborative Approach

Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Neurological Institute takes a multidisciplinary approach to care. This means experts from different specialities—such as neurosurgery, neurology, and interventional neuroradiology—work together to create the best treatment plans. Patients benefit from a team of doctors who bring their expertise together, ensuring that every detail of care is considered.

This collaboration, combined with access to advanced medical tools, is what makes Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi stand out as a leader in neurological care.

Looking Ahead

As a designated Centre of Excellence for stroke treatment, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi continues to seek innovative solutions to improve outcomes for patients. The successful use of the Artisse device is not just a milestone—it is the beginning of a new era in treating brain aneurysms in the region.

By adopting this technology, the hospital has proven its dedication to making healthcare safer, more effective, and more accessible. Patients no longer need to fear invasive surgeries as their only option. Instead, they now have access to world-class care right in Abu Dhabi.

The achievement also places the UAE on the map as a global leader in healthcare innovation. With continued investment in research, new technologies, and skilled professionals, Abu Dhabi is building a medical system that competes with the best in the world.

The successful adoption of the Artisse Intrasaccular Flow Modulator at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi is more than just a medical milestone—it is a story of progress, innovation, and commitment to human life. It proves that healthcare in the UAE is not just keeping pace with the world but is also setting new standards.

For patients suffering from brain aneurysms, this device offers new hope—safer procedures, faster recovery, and lasting protection. For the medical community, it opens the door to new research and collaboration. And for Abu Dhabi, it strengthens its role as a global hub for advanced healthcare and medical excellence.

The future of neurological care in the region has taken a bold step forward, and Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi stands proudly at its forefront.