Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has become the first medical facility in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to adopt the Artisse Intrasaccular Flow Modulator — a groundbreaking device that is redefining the treatment of brain aneurysms.
The milestone highlights the hospital’s continued leadership in advanced neurological care and innovation.
Recognized by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi as a Center of Excellence (CoE) for stroke care, the hospital is now setting a new regional benchmark in the minimally invasive treatment of cerebral aneurysms.
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Dr Fayeza Al Yafie, executive director of the Healthcare Quality Sector at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), said: “Centers of Excellence in Abu Dhabi continue to affirm their commitment to enhancing the healthcare system by providing specialized care and utilizing the emirate’s advanced infrastructure.
“Abu Dhabi’s dynamic regulatory environment encourages research and innovation in the continuous development and attraction of talent as well as cutting-edge technologies and treatments that contribute to the health and safety of community members.
“We congratulate Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi on this milestone and look forward to working together to position the healthcare system in the emirate among the best and most intelligent globally.”
Dr Khalil Zahra, staff physician, Neurosurgery, Neurological Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi said: “The introduction of the technology in our region not only enhances our ability to treat complex aneurysms but also demonstrates our ongoing commitment to bringing the latest medical advancements to our patients.
“This technology, combined with our multidisciplinary approach to patient care, ensures that we continue to provide world-class treatment options for even the most challenging neurological conditions. The successful implementation of the device in its first procedure marks a new era in the treatment of cerebral aneurysms, offering our patients a safer, more efficient, and less invasive treatment option.”
“This technology serves as a springboard for further innovation in our field. We anticipate that our experience with the new technology will inform future research initiatives, potentially leading to even more refined treatment methods for complex cerebrovascular conditions.
“Moreover, as we gather long-term data on patient outcomes, we expect to contribute valuable insights to the global neurosurgical community, further solidifying Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s position as a leader in neurological care and research in the MENA region,” Dr Zahra added.
Understanding the risk: What are cerebral aneurysms?
Cerebral aneurysms, often associated with stroke, occur when a weakened section of a brain blood vessel balloons or bulges. If left untreated, these aneurysms can rupture and lead to subarachnoid hemorrhage, a life-threatening form of stroke caused by bleeding in the brain.
Historically, treating aneurysms required invasive open surgery. However, modern medical advancements now offer minimally invasive techniques that significantly improve patient safety and outcomes.
Game-changing procedure using Artisse device
The newly adopted procedure begins with the insertion of a catheter — usually through the groin or arm — to access the aneurysm in the brain. With the support of advanced 3D imaging and angiography, the surgical team can accurately visualize the aneurysm.
The Artisse device, a finely engineered mesh structure, is then deployed directly into the aneurysm. It fills and seals the sac, preventing blood flow and significantly reducing the risk of rupture and subsequent stroke.
Unlike traditional coil-based treatments, this single-device approach is particularly effective for wide-neck aneurysms, which are typically more difficult to treat.
Once placed, the device remains in the body permanently, eliminating the need for further surgical intervention while providing long-term protection.
Proven results from first patient case
The treatment typically takes between 2 to 8 hours, depending on the aneurysm’s complexity. Follow-up imaging is conducted at 3 and 6 months to ensure the device remains effective.
In the case of the first patient treated at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, follow-up scans at 3 months confirmed successful occlusion of the aneurysm, underscoring the treatment’s efficacy and the potential it holds for future cases.
Multidisciplinary excellence at the Neurological Institute
The successful integration of this new technology is a testament to Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s Neurological Institute, which applies a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to patient care.
By combining expertise in neurosurgery, interventional neuroradiology, and neurology, the Institute provides personalized treatment plans that fully leverage advanced technologies.
Reinforcing regional leadership in stroke and aneurysm care
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi’s designation as a Center of Excellence for stroke was instrumental in the hospital being selected as the launch site for the Artisse device in the MENA region.
This distinction reflects its ongoing commitment to innovation, world-class care, and improved outcomes for patients suffering from complex neurological conditions.
The successful deployment of the Artisse Intrasaccular Flow Modulator further strengthens the hospital’s leadership in neurological treatment, ensuring that patients in the region have access to the latest and most effective technologies available in global medical practice.
