In a remarkable display of surgical expertise, a team of neurosurgeons at a leading Delhi hospital has successfully removed a rare and highly complex spinal tumour from a woman hailing from Uzbekistan. The intricate procedure, conducted in two carefully planned stages, targeted the delicate junction where the skull meets the neck.
A Daunting Diagnosis and Critical Location
The patient, identified as Nozomi, had endured months of distressing symptoms, including severe difficulty in swallowing, an inability to lie flat, and repeated episodes of choking during sleep. Her condition remained undiagnosed until she sought a detailed evaluation at Aakash Healthcare in Delhi.
Advanced scans at the hospital revealed the root cause: a large tumour, roughly the size of half an apple, situated deep behind the mouth. This mass was dangerously compressing both the spinal cord and the brainstem, leading to her debilitating symptoms.
Dr. Amit Srivastava, Director of Neurosurgery at Aakash Healthcare, explained the severity of the case. The tumour had destroyed critical bony structures, including the clivus and the first two cervical vertebrae (C1 and C2). It had also compromised the atlanto-occipital joint, which is fundamental for head stability. Adding to the surgical risk was the tumour's proximity to the carotid artery.
The Precision of a Two-Stage Surgical Strategy
Given the extreme complexity and high risk, the medical team devised a meticulous staged surgical plan. The first operation focused on stabilization. Surgeons performed an occipital–C1–C2 fixation to secure the head and neck, creating a stable foundation for the next phase.
After allowing two weeks for initial healing, the team proceeded with the second and most critical stage. Using a trans-oral endoscopic approach, they navigated through the mouth to completely excise the tumour along with the affected bone structures.
"There were no complications during either stage of the surgery," stated Dr. Srivastava. He emphasized that this was an exceptionally challenging case due to the tumour's precarious location and the extensive structural damage it had caused. "Careful planning and precision were critical to the outcome," he added.
A Testament to Advanced Medical Capability in India
Dr. Aashish Chaudhry, Managing Director of Aakash Healthcare, said this successful operation underscores the importance of advanced surgical techniques and a personalised treatment strategy for managing rare spinal conditions. He highlighted that the case reflects the growing prowess of Indian healthcare institutions in handling high-risk international medical cases.
The patient, Nozomi, is now on a positive road to recovery. Doctors report marked improvement in her swallowing ability, sleep quality, and overall well-being. She is expected to return home to Uzbekistan after completing a necessary rehabilitation programme.
This medical achievement not only brings relief to the patient but also positions Delhi's healthcare expertise on the global map for managing intricate neurosurgical disorders.
