Bhubaneswar, June 16: In a significant achievement for healthcare services in south Odisha, a team of doctors at the Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital, Sitalapalli, successfully performed a highly complex brain surgery to remove a life-threatening tumour from a 60-year-old woman.
The procedure marks the first time such an advanced neurosurgical operation has been carried out in the region, highlighting the growing medical capabilities available outside major metropolitan centres.
The patient had been admitted to the hospital with severe headaches and weakness in her left arm and leg. Subsequent MRI scans revealed a large tumour located in the cerebellopontine angle, a highly sensitive area at the base of the brain. Tumours in this region pose a major challenge to surgeons as they are situated close to the brainstem and critical cranial nerves responsible for facial movement and hearing.
To perform the delicate operation, the neurosurgery team relied on advanced medical technology, including a High-Precision Neurological Microscope that provided detailed visualization of brain structures and blood vessels. The surgeons also used a Cavitron Ultrasonic Surgical Aspirator (CUSA), which employs ultrasonic waves to safely break down and remove tumour tissue while protecting healthy brain matter and vital nerves.
The surgery resulted in a near-total excision of the tumour and was led by Dr. Pravat Kumar Jagadev, Associate Professor in the Department of Neurosurgery. He was assisted by Dr. Pratyush Kumar Mishra from the Neuro-Anaesthesia Department and a dedicated neurosurgical operation theatre team.
Following the procedure, the patient developed Grade II facial palsy, a known complication due to the tumour’s proximity to facial nerves. However, doctors reported that she is recovering steadily with physiotherapy and supportive care.
Hospital Director Deba Prasad Dash described the achievement as a major milestone in advanced neurosurgical care in south Odisha. He congratulated the medical team for their expertise and dedication, stating that the successful use of cutting-edge technologies such as the High-Precision Neurological Microscope and CUSA reflects the institution’s growing ability to handle highly complex brain surgeries locally. The achievement is expected to benefit patients across south Odisha by reducing the need to travel to larger cities for advanced neurosurgical treatment.
About the Author
