MUSCAT – The move comes as part of ongoing efforts to localise epilepsy and functional neurosurgeries and enhance self-sufficiency in this vital field within the Sultanate of Oman.

The initiative aligns with the directives of the Ministry of Health to develop specialised healthcare services and reduce the need for treatment abroad. The step is expected to positively impact the quality of healthcare provided to citizens and residents, while strengthening the efficiency of the national health system in line with international standards.

In a statement to the Oman News Agency, Dr. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Al Azri, Senior Consultant and Head of the Neurosurgery Department at Khoula Hospital, explained that the epilepsy surgery localisation programme includes upgrading infrastructure, equipping the hospital with advanced medical technologies, and training national medical cadres in neurology, neurosurgery, neurophysiology, and neurological mapping.

He noted that the hospital has significantly enhanced its diagnostic capabilities through advanced technologies that improve the accuracy of diagnosing complex epilepsy cases and precisely identifying seizure foci. This progress supports informed surgical decision-making and improves treatment success rates. The achievements have been realised in cooperation with specialised medical teams from the Saudi Arabia and with support from governmental and private institutions.

Dr. Al Azri emphasised that the development reflects integrated efforts among medical and technical departments and is the outcome of strategic plans aimed at building a comprehensive treatment system in neurology and neurosurgery. He added that the hospital places strong emphasis on human capital development through continuous training programs, scholarships, and knowledge transfer initiatives to empower national competencies and ensure sustainable specialized healthcare services.

As part of the programme’s expansion, Khoula Hospital is working to broaden its advanced diagnostic and therapeutic services. Future plans include expanding the use of extended video neuromonitoring, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), nuclear medicine techniques, advanced neuropsychological assessments, and the latest functional surgical planning methods. These enhancements are expected to improve case selection for surgical intervention and achieve optimal treatment outcomes.

The hospital also aims to strengthen integration among relevant departments, including neuroradiology, neurophysiology, and neurological planning units, while enhancing cooperation with related hospitals. The adoption of integrated treatment pathways is intended to accelerate diagnostic procedures, reduce waiting times, and improve the overall patient experience from diagnosis through post-surgical care.

On the research and education front, Dr. Al Azri stated that the hospital seeks to support clinical studies in epilepsy and functional neurosurgery, encourage publication in peer-reviewed medical journals, and organise specialised workshops and training programs for national medical personnel. These efforts reinforce the hospital’s role as a national referral centre for training and education.

In the next phase, the programme is expected to witness an increase in specialised surgical procedures, including delicate epilepsy surgeries and brain stimulation device implantation. Plans are also underway to expand regional and international partnerships with advanced epilepsy surgery centres to facilitate knowledge exchange and the adoption of best global practices.

The localisation of epilepsy and functional neurosurgery at Khoula Hospital represents a strategic milestone in the development of Oman’s healthcare sector, underscoring the commitment of national health institutions to provide advanced, safe, and high-quality care that enhances patients’ quality of life and strengthens confidence in the country’s healthcare system.