KSA, September 12, 2023 – The radiation oncology team at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSH&RC) has achieved a significant milestone in the realm of healthcare. The team has successfully harnessed the cutting-edge 4D Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (4D PET/CT) simulation technology for the treatment planning of a lung cancer patient. This advanced procedure marks a historic first for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, representing a remarkable stride toward enhancing healthcare quality and tailoring precise treatments for patients.

Dr. Amin bin Saleh Al-Omair, Head of the General Radiation Oncology Unit at KFSH&RC, further elaborated on the transformative impact of this technology. He emphasized how it significantly enhances precision in identifying the tumor's exact location, particularly in chest and lung cancer treatments. The 4D PET/CT technology adeptly accommodates the tumor's dynamic movements throughout the respiratory cycle, enabling more precise targeting while safeguarding surrounding healthy tissues. 

Moreover, the 4D PET/CT technology involves the injection of a short-lived radioactive substance into the patient's vein, which accumulates in areas of the body with heightened metabolic or biochemical activity. Consequently, cancer cells appear as bright spots in positron emission tomography scans, as their metabolic rate surpasses that of normal cells. This technological feat aligns with KFSH&RC's strategic commitment to harnessing innovative technologies to improve results, enhance patient experience, and optimize operational efficiency. It reinforces the hospital's position as the preferred choice for specialized healthcare.

Ranked among the world's premier healthcare institutions, KFSH&RC secured 20th position in the 2023 world rankings, emerging as the Middle East and Africa's definitive leader in specialized healthcare, according to Brand Finance.