Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center Conducts UAE's First Testicular Tissue Cryopreservation For Kids

The Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center (ADSCC) carried out four successful testicular tissue cryopreservation (TTC) procedures on young patients aged two, four, seven, and 10. This marks the first time such an advanced medical technique has been performed in the UAE.

These procedures were done before the children underwent bone marrow transplants to treat their medical conditions. Two of the boys had immunodeficiency diseases; one had leukemia, and the other had thalassemia, WAM reported.

The development highlights ADSCC's dedication to providing innovative care for young patients and advancing pediatric bone marrow transplant treatments. The success of these procedures further strengthens Abu Dhabi's reputation as a global leader in healthcare and life sciences.

The TTC technique involves cutting testicular tissue into thin strips, which are treated with special agents to protect the cells during freezing. The tissue is then slowly cooled and stored at extremely low temperatures, usually in liquid nitrogen at about -196°C (-320.8°F).

It can be preserved for 20 to 25 years or even longer, with the potential for future reimplantation to restore fertility. TTC is one of the most innovative methods worldwide, offering hope for preserving fertility in young boys who may lose it due to chemotherapy or radiation treatments.

"At ADSCC, we achieved a groundbreaking milestone earlier this year by performing the first ovarian tissue preservation procedure for a seven-year-old girl," said Maysoon Al Karam, Chief Medical Officer at Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center.

"Today, we are proud to announce another remarkable achievement of successfully performing testicular tissue cryopreservation for four young male patients," Al Karam added.

He emphasized the role of the center's dedicated team in achieving this milestone. The accomplishment reflects advancements in pediatric care, fertility preservation, and a commitment to pioneering modern medical practices through the Abu Dhabi Bone Marrow Transplant Program.

By providing options like testicular and ovarian tissue cryopreservation, ADSCC gives pediatric bone marrow transplant patients—both before and after puberty—a chance to preserve their fertility despite treatments that may affect their reproductive health.

These efforts, driven by the latest scientific research, position ADSCC as a leader in fertility preservation for young patients in the UAE and the region. This achievement aligns with their goal of setting new standards in medical care and compassion.

Mansi Sachdev, Clinical Lead and Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Bone Marrow Transplant Consultant at ADSCC, highlighted the importance of successfully adding testicular tissue preservation to the treatment plans for young male patients undergoing bone marrow transplants.

This innovative procedure was smoothly integrated with other treatments like high-intensity chemotherapy and radiation, which are essential for preparing patients for life-saving bone marrow transplants.

Sleiman Gebran, Pediatric Surgery Consultant at ADSCC, explained that the procedure involved carefully removing a small piece of testicular tissue while ensuring the surrounding area remained unaffected. It is a detailed process that requires precision and teamwork to make sure the procedure is part of the patient's overall treatment plan.