New Delhi: Doctors at All India Institute of Medical Sciences Delhi successfully removed a massive 21.8-kg tumour from a 46-year-old woman suffering from advanced uterine sarcoma.
The surgery was carried out at the Dr B R Ambedkar Institute Rotary Cancer Hospital, where a team led by Dr M D Ray handled the high-risk case.
The woman, a resident of Delhi, had been dealing with increasing abdominal swelling for four months. In the last three months, her condition worsened, with severe pain, extreme bloating and difficulty in daily activities. Despite this, she did not report any bowel or bladder problems.
After initial treatment, detailed tests revealed a very large tumour occupying her abdomen and pelvis.
“On examination, we found a tumour measuring approximately 45 cm, occupying the whole abdomen,” Dr Ray said.
Doctors noted that the fast-growing tumour was pressing against vital organs such as the kidneys and ureters. This could have led to kidney failure within a month or two. It also caused back pain, trouble walking, and breathing discomfort.
On March 23, surgeons performed a complex operation to remove the tumour. During the procedure, they found that it had originated in the uterus. The team removed the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tumour in a surgery that lasted about five hours.
According to Dr Ray, the operation was extremely risky due to the chances of major blood vessel rupture and heavy bleeding.
Despite the challenges, blood loss was limited to about 500 ml and was managed with one unit of packed red blood cells during the surgery.
After the operation, the patient was kept in the ICU for close monitoring. Dr Rakesh Garg, who led the anaesthesia team, managed both the surgery and ICU care. The patient showed quick recovery, and she was able to walk the very next day.
“She is likely to be discharged today,” Dr Ray said.
“The takeaway is that a massive tumour does not necessarily mean it is inoperable or considered terminal. With expert care and an expert centre, it can be managed effectively,” he added.
(with inputs from agencies)
