THE Heart, Chest and Vascular Surgery Department of Dr B R Ambedkar Memorial Hospital (BRAMH) has achieved a remarkable feat in the field of thoracic surgery with successful operation of rare mediastinal tumor inside and over the heart of two persons. Under the leadership of Dr Krishnakant Sahu, Head of Heart, Chest and Vascular Department, the medical team successfully performed two critical surgeries on rare mediastinal tumors involving a 32-year-old patient and a 5- year-old child. These rare surgeries performed on different days have set a new benchmark of successful critical treatment in the department, highlighting its capability to handle complex cases related to chest and lung tumors. Dr Krishnakant Sahu informed that the first patient, a 32-year-old welder of CSEB from Janjgir-Champa, was experiencing chest heaviness, a persistent cough and difficulty in breathing for nearly a year. Despite aware about the criticality for two years, fear of the surgery had prevented him from seeking treatment. The tumor weighing about 1.5 kg and measuring 12X10X10 cm, was larger than the patient’s heart and intricately attached to the left lung and the main pulmonary artery, making the procedure extremely challenging. After thoroughly explaining the risks involved, the patient agreed to the surgery.

 

The medical team successfully removed tumor along with surrounding lymph nodes to minimize the risk of recurrence. After procedure, the patient has since been discharged, and fully recovered. Similarly in the second case, a 5-year-old child from Raigarh had a massive 2.5 kg Mediastinal Tumor, which is medically termed as ‘Immature Teratoma’. Besides occupying nearly half of the child’s chest, the tumor was tightly attached to vital organs including the lungs, aorta, pulmonary artery and heart.

 

The complexity of the case led to multiple refusals for surgery at various medical centers. However, the parents, despite being informed of the high risks and potential complications, consented to the operation at BRAMH. During the procedure, the surgical team had to make incisions on both sides of the child’s chest (Thoracotomy) with heart-lung machine on standby due to the risk of severe bleeding. After a meticulous and challenging surgery, the tumor was successfully removed. The child has made a full recovery and has even resumed attending school. Though critical, these two rare surgeries underline the advanced capabilities of the Heart, Chest, and Vascular Surgery Department at BRAMH, which is now equipped to perform all types of chest and lung tumor-related operations. Dr Krishnakant Sahu and his team have demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication in handling these life-threatening cases, providing a new lease of life to their patients.