Emirati Doctor Dr. Mariam Salem Al Khatri Pioneers Laparoscopic Bariatric Surgery In UAE

Dr Mariam Salem Al Khatri bariatric surgery UAE efforts have placed her at the forefront of obesity treatment nationwide. As Head of the Endoscopy and Gastroenterology Department at Ibrahim Obaidullah Hospital in Ras Al Khaimah, she is the first Emirati doctor specialized in laparoscopic bariatric surgery, having performed around 800 procedures to date.

Her academic journey began at Dubai Medical College and included postgraduate studies in Gastroenterology in the UK, plus specialization in ERCP at Catholic University of Rome. Initially interested in liver surgery, Dr. Al Khatri found her passion in minimally invasive gastrointestinal endoscopy, which led her to focus on weight-loss surgeries.

She explains that the surgical approach is tailored to patient condition and typically recommended for those with a BMI between 30 and 40. Procedures include gastric plication, gastric sleeve, and intragastric balloon placement. For higher-risk patients or those hesitant about major surgery, laparoscopic treatments can act as transitional options to reduce weight safely before potentially larger operations.

Dr. Al Khatri emphasizes that successful obesity treatment requires lifestyle changes and patient commitment even before surgery, coupled with a multidisciplinary care approach. She underscores that obesity is a chronic medical condition linked to serious health risks, not merely a cosmetic issue.

Her advice stresses prevention with early intervention, healthy diets, physical activity, and adherence to medical guidance. With support from UAE leadership promoting health and fitness, she highlights prevention as a shared responsibility benefiting individuals and society alike.