MGM Cancer Institute Saves Arm During Complex Cancer Surgery

MGM Cancer Institute, a cancer care centre in Chennai, has successfully removed a massive 30cm cancerous tumour from a 30-year-old patient from West Bengal without amputating his arm. The challenging surgery was performed by the RECNAC team at MGM Cancer Institute, which included Dr Balaji Ramani, Dr. Sivakumar Mahalingam, Dr. Sivaram Ganeshmoni, and Dr Dhanasekar Padmanabhan.

The patient was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma, a rare cancer affecting bones and soft tissues, particularly in children and young adults. After two previous tumour removal surgeries and chemotherapy cycles in Kolkata, the tumour recurred, growing into a large mass that pressed on his shoulder and arm. Faced with the prospect of limb amputation, the patient sought a second opinion at MGM Cancer Institute.

Using advanced 3D reconstruction imaging, the RECNAC team carefully planned the surgery to remove the tumour without damaging the arm. Despite the tumour's proximity to vital vessels and nerves and the patient's weakened state, the surgical team, with the aid of Dr Sabari Girish, Lead Plastic Surgeon, successfully removed the tumour and preserved the limb using a flap reconstruction technique.

Dr Balaji Ramani, Senior Consultant in Surgical Oncology, highlighted the surgery's complexity: "This was a rare and challenging case. Despite previous surgeries and chemotherapy, the tumour continued to grow and became a large fungating mass. We advised one final surgery to remove it before it could affect the bones. With meticulous planning and advanced 3D imaging, we were able to remove the tumour completely without amputating the limb."

The patient expressed his gratitude, "I am incredibly thankful to the entire team at MGM Cancer Institute. Their expertise and compassion have given me a new lease on life. I am optimistic about my recovery and look forward to resuming my usual activities."