The Karnataka Medical College and Research Institute (KMCRI) in Hubballi has successfully performed rare skull base surgeries on 70 patients, marking a significant advancement in neurosurgical care in the region. Dr. Manjunath Dandi, a neurosurgeon at KMCRI, stated that patients suffering from conditions requiring these surgeries often experience excruciating pain, particularly at night, leading to prolonged sleeplessness and a severe deterioration in their quality of life.
Details of the Surgeries
The surgeries were conducted over a period of several months, targeting complex lesions at the base of the skull. These include tumors and other abnormalities that are difficult to access due to the proximity of critical nerves and blood vessels. Dr. Dandi explained that the procedures require meticulous planning and advanced surgical techniques to minimize risks and ensure optimal outcomes.
According to hospital records, the patients ranged in age from 18 to 65 years, with a mix of genders. The conditions treated included meningiomas, schwannomas, and pituitary adenomas, among others. The success rate has been high, with most patients reporting significant relief from symptoms post-surgery.
Impact on Patients
One patient, who requested anonymity, shared that before the surgery, the pain was unbearable and disrupted daily activities. “I couldn’t sleep at night, and the constant headache made it impossible to work or even enjoy time with family. After the surgery at KMCRI, I feel like a new person,” the patient said.
Dr. Dandi emphasized that the surgeries have not only alleviated pain but also improved neurological functions in many patients. “Some patients had vision problems or hearing loss due to the tumors. Post-surgery, we have seen notable improvements,” he added.
Significance for Hubballi
KMCRI is one of the few government hospitals in Karnataka offering such specialized procedures. The institute has invested in state-of-the-art equipment, including intraoperative navigation systems and microscopes, to facilitate these complex surgeries. The success of these 70 cases positions KMCRI as a regional hub for skull base surgery, reducing the need for patients to travel to metro cities like Bengaluru or Mumbai.
Dr. Dandi noted that the team plans to expand the program and train more surgeons in these techniques. “Our goal is to make these surgeries accessible to more patients in North Karnataka and beyond,” he said.
