A 64-year-old man, bedridden for over six months due to Stage-2 soft tissue cancer liposarcoma, is walking again after undergoing successful surgery at Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC). The complex seven-hour procedure, led by a specialised team from the Orthopaedic Oncology and Plastic Surgery departments, resulted in the removal of a 3 kg tumour from the patient's leg, saving him from amputation.
The surgical team, led by Dr Himanshu Rohela, Consultant in Orthopaedic Oncology, and Dr Rajan Arora, successfully excised the tumour, which was intricately wrapped around critical structures, including the sciatic nerve and major blood vessels of the lower limb. Despite the tumor's size and its challenging location, the surgeons carefully preserved the neurovascular structure to maintain the leg’s functionality.
"The patient initially came to us after being advised to undergo amputation. He had a history of two previous surgeries. Upon reviewing his case, we decided to proceed with tumour removal instead. We operated three days later and successfully removed the tumour," Dr. Rohela explained.
The multi-disciplinary approach combining expertise from both the Orthopaedic Oncology and Plastic Surgery departments enabled the team to ensure the patient’s rapid recovery. Remarkably, the patient began walking just one day after the surgery, defying initial recommendations for amputation. Following the surgery, the patient has been declared cancer-free.
The case highlights the advanced capabilities of RGCIRC in tackling complex cancer surgeries and its commitment to providing innovative treatment solutions. The success of this surgery not only saved the patient's leg but also restored his mobility and quality of life.
Dr. Rohela emphasised, “The primary challenge was saving the neurovascular structure engulfed by the tumour. Using advanced techniques, we were able to separate the blood vessels and ensure the leg’s functionality, preventing the need for amputation.”
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