Jammu, March 18:
In a significant leap for healthcare in the region, the Department of Neurosurgery at AIIMS Jammu has successfully performed a complex reconstructive surgery on a 15-year-old girl suffering from a rare, aggressive bony tumor.
The Challenge: A Life-Altering Diagnosis
The young patient, hailing from Pathankot, was diagnosed with an Aneurysmal Bone Cyst—a benign yet highly aggressive tumor. The growth had severely affected her forehead and eye socket, leading to:
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Facial Deformity: Visible disfigurement that forced the teenager to stop attending school.
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Vision Loss: Gradual loss of sight as the tumor invaded the orbital space.
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High-Risk Surgery: The tumor was invading the brain and drawing its blood supply directly from healthy brain tissue, posing a massive risk of fatal bleeding.
The Procedure: Precision Meets Innovation
After weeks of meticulous planning, a specialized team led by Dr. Kanav Gupta and Dr. Shaurya Darbari (Assistant Professors, Neurosurgery) executed the intricate procedure. They were supported by an anesthesia team comprising Dr. Raksha Kundal and Dr. Aleesha.
Cutting-Edge Technology Used:
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Intraoperative Navigation: Acted like a “GPS for the brain” to pinpoint tumor extensions.
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Cell Saver System: A sophisticated technique that collected, purified, and re-infused the patient’s own blood, eliminating the need for external transfusions.
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Titanium Graft & Bone Putty: Surgeons reconstructed the bony defect with titanium and used a quick-setting polymer to mold a natural-looking eyebrow contour.
A New Lease on Life
The surgery was a resounding success. The patient has regained her facial symmetry and, most importantly, her vision. She is now ready for discharge and a return to her normal school life.
“This case underscores the progress our department has made since its establishment just seven months ago. We are tackling cases deemed inoperable elsewhere.” — Dr. Shaurya Darbari, Officiating HoD, Neurosurgery.
Impact: World-Class Care, Locally
Prof. (Dr) D.N. Sharma, Executive Director & CEO of AIIMS Jammu, expressed immense pride in the team. He noted that residents of Jammu, Kashmir, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh no longer need to endure long wait times at AIIMS New Delhi or PGIMER Chandigarh.
With over 120 neurosurgeries performed in just over half a year, AIIMS Jammu is rapidly becoming the premier destination for advanced neurosurgical care in North India.
