MAKKAH: Quick and precise intervention by a medical team at the Eye Health Center of King Abdullah Medical City in Makkah saved the sight of an Egyptian pilgrim who experienced sudden vision loss, Saudi Arabia’s health authorities announced on Thursday.
A series of examinations revealed that the patient was suffering from retinal detachment and cataracts that could have led to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly, said a Makkah Health Cluster statement carried by the Saudi Press Agency.
After surgery, the patient was discharged on the same day and was able to continue with her Hajj preparations.
“She is now receiving close medical follow-up to ensure retinal stability and gradual improvement in her vision,” the statement said.
Every year Saudi Arabia deploys around 50,000 healthcare and other professionals to work 24 hours daily during Hajj.
Last year, the Ministry of Health said more than 142,000 pilgrims benefited from various healthcare services provided by health centers and hospitals.
Of this number, 4,082 were admissions to hospitals and medical centers, including 24 open-heart surgeries, 249 cardiac catheterizations, and 1,006 dialysis sessions.
