Saudi Center for Organ Transplantation performs first corneal retrieval
RIYADH — A team from the Saudi Center for Organ Transplantation (SCOT), in coordination with the organ donation unit at King Saud Medical City, successfully performed the Kingdom's first corneal retrieval from a deceased donor following cardiac death.The retrieved corneas were transported to the Eye Bank at King Abdulaziz Medical City under the Ministry of National Guard for evaluation,…
Riyadh — The Saudi Center for Organ Transplantation (SCOT) and the organ donation unit at King Saud Medical City achieved a historic milestone by performing the nation's inaugural corneal retrieval from a deceased donor who had suffered cardiac death. The retrieved corneas were carefully transported to the Eye Bank at King Abdulaziz Medical City, where they underwent evaluation, processing, and preservation according to stringent medical quality standards before potential transplantation.
This significant procedure marks the commencement of a pilot initiative launched on August 10, 2026, in collaboration between SCOT and the two medical cities. The primary objective of this initiative is to broaden corneal donation opportunities, establish a more reliable supply of corneas for transplantation, and ultimately restore vision to patients in need of corneal transplants.
Dr. Talal Algoufi, the Director General of SCOT, expressed appreciation for the dedication and expertise of the medical teams involved in this groundbreaking achievement. He expressed confidence that this milestone will serve as a catalyst for cultivating a more widespread culture of corneal donation in the Kingdom and inspire additional hospitals to join this national initiative aimed at enhancing eye care services.
Written by urgent.news from Saudi Gazette's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
