Advancements in AI and Robotics at King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre

King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre Leads the Way in AI and Robotics

In a groundbreaking move towards technological innovation, Saudi Arabia’s King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSH&RC) has been making waves with its advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. Under the ambitious Saudi Vision 2030, the hospital is poised to unlock an estimated US$15 billion to $27 billion in economic value for the Kingdom’s medical sector by 2030, while also revolutionizing patient care.

One of the key areas where KFSH&RC is making strides is in robotic-assisted surgeries. In 2023 alone, the hospital performed 1,195 robotic-assisted procedures, including the world’s first fully robotic liver transplantation. This cutting-edge technology is not only improving surgical outcomes but also paving the way for more complex procedures in the future.

Additionally, KFSH&RC has embraced whole genome sequencing (WGS) as a vital tool in the early detection and treatment of genetic disorders. By conducting over 7,000 WGS tests in 2023, the hospital has been able to identify genetic predispositions to various diseases, allowing for personalized treatment plans for patients.

AI-driven solutions have also been integrated across various departments at KFSH&RC. In radiology, AI tools have improved diagnostic accuracy by 25% and reduced misdiagnosis rates by 18%. Furthermore, the hospital has successfully produced CAR-T cells internally for cancer treatment, showcasing the potential of AI and biotechnological methods in advancing medical care.

Central to KFSH&RC’s technological advancements is its state-of-the-art Capacity Command Centre, which serves as the hub for data-driven decision-making. By monitoring patient movements, the centre ensures quality care, adherence to standard procedures, and predicts demand volumes to mitigate risks. Since its launch in September 2021, the centre has executed over 170,000 intervention procedures, significantly reducing bed waiting times and emergency department wait times.

In a move towards international collaboration, the governments of Thailand and Saudi Arabia recently finalized a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop the medical tourism industry, further solidifying KFSH&RC’s position as a leader in healthcare innovation.