A Historic Milestone for Neurosurgery in the Maldives

The Maldives Association of Surgeons (MAS) proudly celebrates a landmark achievement by the Department of Neurosurgery at IGMH/MCGH — the successful introduction and performance of Full Endoscopic Spine Surgery for the first time in the Maldives.

This advanced and minimally invasive technique, which includes Full Endoscopic Transforaminal and Interlaminar Spine Surgeries, represents a major leap forward in the country’s surgical capability and patient care standards.

Endoscopic spine surgery is among the most modern and sophisticated methods of treating spinal disorders such as disc herniation and spinal canal stenosis. Using a small endoscope and specialized instruments, surgeons can address spinal pathology through incisions less than one centimeter in size. This approach significantly reduces tissue damage, blood loss, and postoperative pain, allowing patients to recover faster, mobilize earlier, and return to normal life within a much shorter period compared to conventional spine surgery.

By adopting this cutting-edge technology, the Neurosurgery team at IGMH has brought world-class, minimally invasive spine care to Maldivian patients — eliminating the need for many to seek such advanced procedures abroad. This is a major step towards self-reliance in complex neurosurgical services within the Maldives.

This milestone reflects the dedication, vision, and tireless efforts of the IGMH Neurosurgery team, led by Dr. Ali Niyaf and Dr. Ali Aafee, whose pursuit of excellence continues to elevate the standard of neurosurgical care in the nation.

The Maldives Association of Surgeons extends its heartfelt congratulations to the entire Neurosurgery team for this pioneering achievement — a proud and historic moment for the surgical fraternity of the Maldives.

Together, we move forward in advancing surgical innovation and delivering safer, more effective, and patient-centered care for our community.