Doctors at AIIMS Delhi’s Dr BR Ambedkar Rotary Cancer Hospital (Dr BRA-IRCH) successfully removed a massive 21.8 kg tumor from a 46-year-old woman who was diagnosed with advanced uterine cancer this week.
The Delhi resident, who was recently diagnosed with diabetes and high blood pressure, has experienced progressive abdominal fullness for four months, followed by severe bloating, pain and functional limitations for the past three months. However, she did not report any bowel or bladder problems.
After receiving initial treatment for the symptoms, she was evaluated and found to have a huge mass that completely filled her abdomen and pelvis, said Dr M D Rai, Professor, Department of Surgical Oncology at BRA-IRCH.
Dr. Ray said: “Upon examination, we found a tumor approximately 45 cm long, occupying the entire abdomen.”
The rapidly growing mass was pressing on vital organs such as the kidneys and ureters, putting her at risk of kidney failure within a month or two. It also caused lower back pain, difficulties in walking and shortness of breath, he told PTI.
On March 23, the team performed an exploratory laparotomy, which revealed the origin of the tumor in the uterus. Surgeons removed her uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes and huge tumor in an arduous operation that lasted five hours.
Dr. Ray explained that the operation carries high risks, including the possibility of rupture of major blood vessels and severe bleeding leading to shock.
However, blood loss was limited to 500 ml, and was managed with 1 unit of packed red blood cells (PRBC) during the surgical procedure.
After surgery, the patient was transferred to the intensive care unit for close monitoring. Dr Rakesh Garg was the in-charge anesthetist who properly managed the intra-operative care and ICU, Dr Rai said, adding that she started walking noticeably the next day and is recovering quickly. “She will likely be discharged today,” he added.
“The bottom line is that a large tumor does not necessarily mean it is inoperable or considered chronic. With expert care and expert centre, it can be managed effectively,” he added.
