Teen regains mobility thanks to innovative treatment at Sidra medicine

Doha, Qatar: Diagnosed at birth with Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) of his foot, life for then fourteen year old Simon Saade was a constant struggle...

Doha, Qatar: Diagnosed at birth with Arteriovenous Malformation (AVM) of his foot, life for then fourteen-year-old Simon Saade was a constant struggle.

An AVM is when blood vessels become abnormally tangled, directly connecting arteries and veins and causing them to bleed or steal blood from normal tissues. This can prevent the surrounding tissues from getting enough oxygen. People with AVM face the risk of rupturing and bleeding, leading to potentially serious health complications.

AVMs are frequently found in the head, neck, and on limbs. Simon’s case was rare as it was on the plantar surface of his foot, which interfered with his ability to walk properly. 

In his early childhood, Simon underwent several corrective procedures abroad. However, the procedures did not produce the desired results causing one of his legs to become longer than the other; forcing him to rely on crutches to balance his movement. Simon also continued to face health risks, and his family constantly had to carry a backpack filled with medical supplies to handle any unexpected bleeding episodes.

The Saade family, originally from Lebanon but residing in Qatar, were advised to seek treatment at Sidra Medicine, a specialist women’s and children’s hospital.