Riyadh: The Visionary Work of Dr. Fawaz Skaff in Radiology

Dr Fawaz Skaff

Dr. Fawaz Skaff is at the forefront of innovation in medical radiology, where accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective treatment. As a consultant in abdominal radiology at the King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSHRC), his expertise is essential in guiding patient care, ensuring precise diagnoses, and enabling life-saving interventions. The complex science of radiology and its power to improve patient outcomes solidified his decision to specialize in this field.

During his medical training, Dr. Skaff vividly remembers the first time he was entrusted with patient care during his clinical rotations. For him, the most rewarding aspect of his work is knowing that his interpretations of medical images directly influence patient management. Whether detecting a tumor at an early stage, guiding a complex surgical procedure, or ruling out a potentially life-threatening condition, his expertise in imaging provides clinicians with the crucial information they need. Behind every scan lies a story—a life that depends on the accuracy of his evaluation.

The demanding of modern medicine requires physicians to maintain a delicate balance between their professional and personal lives. Dr. Skaff firmly believes that setting clear boundaries between work and personal time is essential to preventing burnout. Time management, prioritizing self-care, and fostering social connections are key strategies that help him stay alert, motivated, and resilient. These principles enable him to consistently provide the highest quality care to his patients.

One of Dr. Skaff’s greatest professional achievements is his contribution to radiological research. In 1988, while working in France, he was part of a pioneering team that applied 1mm slices for thoracic imaging—an innovation that was groundbreaking at a time when the standard resolution was 10mm. This advancement transformed diagnostic capabilities, offering unprecedented clarity and setting a new benchmark for imaging quality.

In his practice, Dr. Skaff is a strong advocate for patient-centered care, even in a specialty where direct patient interaction is limited. He ensures that his radiology reports are clear, detailed, and actionable, providing referring physicians with the essential information needed to guide patient discussions and treatment decisions. He also makes himself available for consultations, ensuring that any concerns regarding imaging results are addressed with clarity and precision.

As technology continues to push the boundaries of medicine, Dr. Skaff emphasizes the importance of ethical decision-making. While AI and automation offer promising possibilities, he cautions against an over-reliance on technology without human oversight. Physicians must ensure transparency in patient care, safeguard data confidentiality, and base their decisions on sound, evidence-based medical principles.

At KFSHRC, Dr. Fawaz Skaff continues to make a profound impact on patient care, medical research, and the future of radiology. His work is a testament to the power of precision, the importance of innovation, and the profound responsibility of a physician. Behind every scan he interprets lies a story, a diagnosis, and a life that depends on the accuracy of his expertise—a responsibility he upholds with unwavering dedication and excellence.

Caroline Haïat