Security Forces Hospital in Riyadh Achieves Medical Success in Treating Rare Case of Newborn with Occipital Encephalocele

The Security Forces Hospital in Riyadh succeeded in diagnosing and treating a case of a newborn with a massive occipital encephalocele exceeding 10 centimeters in diameter, considered one of the rare and complex congenital nervous system malformations.

The condition was diagnosed prenatally in the high-risk pregnancy clinics using advanced ultrasound and fetal magnetic resonance imaging. The examinations revealed brain tissue and major blood vessels inside the encephalocele, necessitating a comprehensive treatment plan involving the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Neurosurgery, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and Social Services.

The mother underwent a safe cesarean delivery, after which the newborn was transferred to the intensive care unit following a complete medical evaluation and discussion of the treatment plan with the family. The infant successfully underwent surgery to repair the encephalocele, followed by a procedure to drain cerebrospinal fluid to treat hydrocephalus, with no significant complications reported.

The newborn left the neonatal intensive care unit after about a month and a half, in stable health with positive indicators for neurological growth and development. This achievement reflects the integration of medical specialties and advanced capabilities in the medical services of the Ministry of Interior, enhancing healthcare quality and patient safety.