Specialists at Sri Ramakrishna Hospital successfully saved a patient at high risk of airway collapse due to a large tumour compressing the thoracic trachea.
The six-hour multidisciplinary surgery demonstrates how expert planning, swift decision-making, and collaborative care can overcome life-threatening medical challenges.
The patient was admitted with severe breathlessness and required constant oxygen support even at rest. Evaluation revealed a massive tumour compressing the trachea from both sides, putting the patient at risk of sudden airway collapse and possible fatality if untreated.
Recognising the severity of the condition, the hospital’s medical team acted urgently to stabilise the patient and prepare for a high-risk surgical intervention. Given the extreme respiratory compromise, meticulous pre-operative planning was essential.
Dr. Arun Gangadhar, Consultant Interventional Pulmonologist, optimised the patient’s respiratory status, enabling the patient to safely tolerate a prolonged surgery. The definitive procedure was led by Dr. Ramprassath, Senior Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon, and his experienced team. The surgery, which lasted nearly six hours, required precision, stamina, and close coordination.
The complexity of the case was heightened by the tumour’s position, compressing the windpipe on both sides and firmly attached to the spine. Dr. Vikram Muthusubramanian, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon, assisted in separating the tumour from its spinal attachment, ensuring no neurological damage occurred.
The patient’s life was continuously safeguarded by the anaesthesia team comprising Dr. Narendran Menon, Dr. Manikandan, and Dr. Ashok Hariharan, whose vigilant monitoring maintained physiological stability throughout the procedure.
Following surgery, the patient recovered remarkably. Oxygen dependency resolved completely, breathing returned to normal, and symptoms disappeared. The patient has been discharged in stable condition.
“This extraordinary surgical success reflects the strength of our multidisciplinary team,” the hospital said.
R. Sundar, Managing Trustee of SNR Sons Charitable Trust, congratulated the medical team. Ramkumar, CEO; Mahesh, Chief Administrative Officer; Dr. Rajagopal, Medical Director; and Dr. Alagappan, Medical Superintendent, also commended the doctors for their efforts.
