First successful endoscopic tear duct repair at King Salman Hospital
The Center of Excellence for Ophthalmology at King Salman Hospital, part of the First Riyadh Health Cluster, has achieved a significant medical milestone, adding to the successes of the healthcare sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This achievement follows the successful completion of the first endoscopic tear duct repair procedure, performed without the need for any external surgical intervention. The delicate procedure was led by Dr. Taher Al-Shammari, a consultant in ophthalmic plastic surgery, and included a select group of specialized medical professionals.
Evolution of lacrimal duct surgery techniques
This achievement comes amidst the significant advancements in ophthalmology worldwide. Traditional procedures for treating blocked tear ducts required an external incision on the face near the nose, potentially leaving scars and necessitating a longer recovery period. The importance of the modern technique implemented at King Salman Hospital lies in using an endoscope through the nose to access the tear duct. This preserves the aesthetic appearance of the face, significantly reduces the likelihood of surgical complications, accelerates tissue healing, and allows the patient to return to their normal life in record time.
Statistics and records in 2025
This achievement is not an isolated event, but rather part of a series of successes achieved by the center during 2025. The ophthalmology departments witnessed a qualitative leap in the services provided, culminating in the performance of nearly 3,000 complex surgical procedures during the year. These procedures included cataract surgeries, treatment of retinal diseases and glaucoma, as well as corneal transplants and advanced corrective lens implants, reflecting the center's high level of preparedness in handling complex cases.
Strategic impact and the future of healthcare
The center's management affirmed that this success embodies the effective integration of national medical expertise with the advanced technological infrastructure provided by the Kingdom. This achievement directly contributes to realizing the objectives of the Health Transformation Program and the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aim to localize modern medical technologies and establish the Kingdom as a regional leader in specialized healthcare. This development contributes to improving the quality of life for patients and reducing the need to travel abroad for treatment, as the Center of Excellence for Ophthalmology continues to solidify its position as a leading destination in this specialized field.
