Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Centre performs pathbreaking surgeries

The Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center (ADSCC) has successfully performed four testicular tissue cryopreservation (TTC) procedures on four young patients (2, 7, 4 and 10 years old respectively) prior to undergoing bone marrow transplantation to treat their diseases.

Two of the boys suffered from immunodeficiency diseases, one was diagnosed with leukaemia and the other with thalassaemia.

Launching this innovative medical advancement for the first time in the UAE reflects ADSCC's commitment to provide comprehensive innovative care for young patients and advanced paediatric bone marrow transplant care. The success of these procedures reinforces the Emirate’s ongoing healthcare achievements, further cementing Abu Dhabi's status as a global leader in healthcare and life sciences.

Prior to bone marrow transplant, the young boys were required to undergo high-dose chemotherapy and total body irradiation required for the transplant. The parents were fully informed and educated about the potential risks of these treatments for their children’s future fertility. ADSCC physicians explained the benefits of testicular tissue cryopreservation in restoring the children’s future fertility.

The four surgical procedures were performed at ADSCC in 2024 with the consent of each of the children’s parents. Testicular tissues of each child were removed in a one-hour-procedure by ADSCC paediatric surgeons with the support of a multidisciplinary team of urologists, anaesthesiologists and bone marrow transplant physicians, and were transferred to one of Abu Dhabi’s fertility centres for processing and preservation.

Dr. Maysoon Al Karam, Chief Medical Officer at Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center said, “At ADSCC, we achieved a groundbreaking milestone earlier this year by performing the first ovarian tissue preservation procedure for a 7-year-old girl. Today, we are proud to announce another remarkable achievement of successfully performing testicular tissue cryopreservation for four young male patients.

"This achievement was made possible by our dedicated multidisciplinary team and highlights not only the advancements in paediatric care and fertility preservation but also our commitment to pioneering cutting-edge medical practices and delivering patient-centred care through our Abu Dhabi Bone Marrow Transplant Programme (AD-BMT).

"By offering fertility preservation options, including testicular and ovarian cryopreservation, we empower our paediatric BMT patients — both pre- and post-puberty — with the possibility of future fertility despite treatments that may impact their reproductive potential. Our efforts are derived by the latest scientific advancements, positioning ADSCC as a leader in providing tailored fertility preservation solutions for pre-pubertal male and female patients in the UAE and the region. This progress reinforces our vision to set new standards in medical excellence and compassionate care.”

Dr. Mansi Sachdev, Clinical Lead & Paediatric Haematology, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant Consultant at ADSCC stated, “A key milestone in ADSCC journey is the successful integration of testicular tissue preservation into the treatment plans of young male patients undergoing bone marrow transplantation. This innovative procedure was seamlessly incorporated into their comprehensive care, which included high-intensity chemotherapy and radiation therapy that are crucial steps in preparing for the life-saving bone marrow transplant to treat their underlying conditions.”

Dr. Sleiman Gebran, Paediatric Surgery Consultant at ADSCC, said, “The surgical procedure involved carefully removing a small portion of the testicular tissue while ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding anatomy and functionality. It is a meticulous process that requires precision and collaboration with a multidisciplinary team to integrate this into the patient’s overall treatment plan which we offer at ADSCC.

"This groundbreaking approach allows us to preserve spermatogonial stem cells for potential future use, offering families reassurance amidst challenging circumstances. As a paediatric surgeon, it is both a privilege and a responsibility to be part of a procedure that not only treats current health challenges but also addresses long-term quality of life goals for our patients."

The advanced technique of TTC involves slicing testicular tissue into thin strips, which are treated with cryoprotective agents to safeguard the cells from damage during the freezing process.

The tissue is then gradually cooled and stored at ultra-low temperatures, typically in liquid nitrogen at approximately -196°C (-320.8°F). It can remain preserved for 20 to 25 years or longer, with the potential for future reimplantation to restore fertility.

TTC is among the most innovative techniques globally, offering a promising solution for preserving fertility in prepubescent males at risk of infertility due to chemotherapy or radiation therapy during childhood.

 WAM