Kuwait Achieves Landmark with Two Back-to-Back Heart Transplants in One Week

Kuwait's Salman Al-Dabbous Heart Center has carried out two back-to-back heart transplants in a major medical milestone. The procedures mark a significant step forward for the country's heart health system, bringing the total number of heart transplants in Kuwait to 13. Officials say the achievement strengthens the nation's ability to handle complex heart surgeries independently.

The Ministry of Health confirmed that the operations were performed on a 10-year-old child and an adult patient in their fifties. Both surgeries took place at the Salman Al-Dabbous Heart Center, where teams worked around the clock to ensure success. The center has also implanted 84 left ventricular assist devices (LVADs) and fitted 20 patients with the IMPELLA 5.5 cardiac support device this year.

Professor Riyadh Al-Tarzi acknowledged the Ministry of Health's support, particularly the involvement of Health Minister Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi and Undersecretary Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi. He praised the coordinated efforts of multiple teams, including cardiac surgeons, cardiologists, heart failure specialists, and intensive care staff, as well as anaesthetists, physiotherapists, nurses, and pharmacists.

Kuwait's progress in heart transplants has accelerated rapidly. In 2019, only one transplant was recorded, followed by another in 2021 and one more in 2023. This year, two transplants were completed, while 2025 has already seen eight successful procedures. The Ministry highlighted that these advancements align with international standards and reduce reliance on overseas medical care.

The surgeries provide a lifeline for patients with severe heart failure, offering them a chance at improved heart health and quality of life. Kuwait's growing expertise in high-risk procedures also reinforces its position as a regional leader in advanced cardiac care. With national teams now capable of performing such operations, the country moves closer to full medical self-sufficiency.