Removal of a 15 kg cancerous mass from the abdomen of 71 year old woman can still be called a rare and challenging surgery in spite of the technical advancement.

On 24th October 2008, one such surgery was performed by me along with my team.

A few recollections from the article featured in the Indian Express on 25th October 2008.

A 15 Kg mass was removed from the body of a 71-year-old woman at the Lifeline Multi-Specialty Hospital here on Thursday.

Renuka Kumar (name changed) presented to the hospital last year with a swollen abdomen. She was found to have a diffuse mass in her abdomen. After tests, she was taken for surgery where doctors found rare jelly-like tumour 'pseudomyxoma peritoni' all over her abdomen, stuck to her bowels and stomach. The surgeons could only remove very little of it.

After the surgery they referred her to an oncologist. She made various rounds in different hospitals but no one could offer her anything. In March this year, I was told about the case and decided to do something," said Dr S Krishnan, a radiation oncologist, who removed the mass in her abdomen.

Renuka was prepared for surgery once again as doctors wanted to explore what they could do. When we opened her up, it was Deepavali for the doctors. The entire 15-kg jelly just came flowing out. It was no longer sticky. Three basins were filled and we were able to remove all of it.

Renuka's ovaries (from which the tumour had originated), her uterus and appendix were removed to prevent any future rebirth of the tumour. A small catheter has now been attached to her stomach and she will be on medication for the next tow months as doctors do not want to subject her to any more chemotherapy. "Her relief is immense and her life has changed.

Sometimes we are able to perform such rare and difficult surgery because of the strong will, determination and cooperation of the patient. For instance, Ms Renuka Kumar, in spite of the age, repeated failure wanted to fight and get well, even if it meant one more surgery within a year after she underwent one for this condition.

On behalf of my team ,I salute her bravery and endurance.