Tunisia Advances Cardiac Care with Introduction of Robot-Assisted Surgery

Tunisia is poised to embrace a new era in cardiovascular medicine with the upcoming introduction of robot-assisted cardiac surgery. This significant step forward was announced by specialists at the eighth congress of the Tunisian Association of Cardiac and Vascular Surgery, held in Tunis.

The adoption of robotic surgery follows the successful integration of similar technologies in other medical fields across Tunisia. Imed Frikha, head of cardiac, thoracic, and vascular surgery at Habib Bourguiba University Hospital in Sfax, explained that this advanced technique allows surgeons to precisely control robotic arms from an electronic console. This enables the performance of complex procedures through minimal incisions, offering substantial benefits.

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This technique allows the surgeon to pilot high-precision robotic arms from an electronic platform, offering the possibility of performing complex interventions through very small incisions.

These advantages include reduced bleeding, lower infection risks, and decreased postoperative pain. Patients are expected to experience shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times. The congress highlighted the growing trend of minimally invasive techniques, such as video-assisted cardiac surgery, which is already available in several Tunisian hospitals, including those in Tunis, Ariana, Sfax, and Sousse.

Raouf Denguir, president of the Tunisian Association of Cardiac and Vascular Surgery, noted that Tunisia has established itself as a regional leader in cardiac surgery due to its skilled medical teams and ability to adopt technological innovations, despite their high cost. The country's expertise attracts foreign doctors for training. Additionally, Tunisia has been using cardiac assist devices, known as heart pumps, since 2024 for patients with advanced heart failure, with the national health insurance covering the approximately 300,000 dinar cost per device.

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Tunisia occupies a reference position in the region today thanks to the expertise of its medical teams and its ability to integrate technological innovations despite their high cost.