Dr. Saman Nikeghbalian is a highly esteemed general surgeon and a pioneering figure in the field of organ transplantation in Shiraz, Iran. He is recognized as the first liver and pancreas transplant surgeon in the country, having made significant contributions to transplant medicine and surgical practices.
Professional Overview
Current Position
Dr. Nikeghbalian serves as a Professor of Surgery and the Director of the Shiraz Transplant Center at Abu Ali Sina Hospital, affiliated with Shiraz University of Medical Sciences in Shiraz, Iran. His leadership at the transplant center has positioned it as one of the leading facilities for organ transplantation in the Middle East.
Educational Background
- 1987 – 1995: Completed his medical degree at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Iran.
- 1995 – 1999: Completed his residency in General Surgery at Shiraz School of Medicine.
- 2004 – 2006: Undertook a fellowship in transplantation at King’s College London, England.
Appointments and Positions
- 2006 – 2017: Served as Deputy Head of Research at the Shiraz Transplant Center.
- 2017 – Present: Appointed Director of the Shiraz Transplant Center.
Surgical Achievements
Dr. Nikeghbalian has an impressive record of groundbreaking surgical procedures, including:
- 2006: Performed the first pancreas transplant in Iran at the Shiraz Transplant Center.
- 2007: Conducted the first in-situ split liver transplant in Iran.
- 2010: Executed the first multi-visceral transplant in Iran.
- 2014: Achieved milestones with the first domino liver transplant and liver auto-transplant in Iran.
- Successfully completed the first small bowel transplant in Iran.
His pioneering work has placed him at the forefront of organ transplantation, making significant advancements that have improved patient outcomes.
Contributions to Research and Publications
Dr. Nikeghbalian is also an active researcher, contributing to numerous publications that advance knowledge in transplantation and surgical techniques. Some notable research topics include:
- The relationship between cytokine gene polymorphisms and viral hepatitis infections in kidney transplant recipients.
- Studies on hepatocellular carcinoma and its management post-transplantation.
- Innovations in hepatocyte isolation from unused or rejected livers for potential transplantation.
His research has been published in reputable medical journals, further establishing his expertise in the field.
Specialized Services Offered
Dr. Nikeghbalian provides a wide range of surgical services, including:
- Multivisceral Transplant
- Pancreas Transplant
- Liver Transplant
- Intestinal Transplant
- Sleeve Gastric Surgery
- Gastrectomy (Stomach Removal)
- Herniorrhaphy (Hernia Repair)
- Whipple Surgery (Pancreatectomy)
- Metabolic Surgery
- Hepatectomy and Hilar Resection
- Cholecystectomy (Gallbladder Surgery)
- Appendectomy
- Nephrectomy (Kidney Removal)
- Adrenalectomy (Adrenal Gland Removal)
- Splenectomy (Spleen Removal)
- Hydatid Cyst Treatment
- CBD Exploration (Common Bile Duct Exploration)
- Gastric Bypass Surgery
- Thyroidectomy (Thyroid Removal)
- Esophagectomy (Esophagus Removal)
Impact on Transplantation in Iran
Dr. Nikeghbalian’s contributions have not only advanced surgical practices but have also elevated the status of Iranian medical institutions on an international level. Under his direction, the Shiraz Transplant Center has become one of the most active centers for organ transplantation globally, surpassing many European centers in terms of surgical volume and complexity.
Dr. Saman Nikeghbalian is a distinguished general surgeon whose pioneering work in liver and pancreas transplantation has made a profound impact on healthcare in Iran and beyond. His dedication to advancing surgical techniques, coupled with his commitment to patient care and education, positions him as a leader in his field. Patients seeking expert care for complex surgical needs can trust Dr. Nikeghbalian’s extensive experience and innovative approach to medicine.
