Doctors at the Security Forces Hospital in Riyadh have diagnosed and treated a premature baby born with a large occipital encephalocele more than 10 centimeters across, a rare and complex congenital malformation of the nervous system.

The condition was picked up before birth at the hospital's high-risk pregnancy clinic using advanced ultrasound and fetal MRI, which showed brain tissue and major blood vessels inside the sac. A full treatment plan was drawn up with specialists from obstetrics and gynecology, neurosurgery, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and social services.

The mother had a safe cesarean delivery and the baby was admitted to the NICU. After a full evaluation and discussion with the family, surgeons repaired the encephalocele. The infant later had a procedure to drain cerebrospinal fluid to treat hydrocephalus, with no significant complications.

The baby was discharged in stable condition after about six weeks, with encouraging signs of neurological development. The hospital said the case shows the strength of its multidisciplinary teams and the advanced capabilities of the Ministry of Interior's medical services.