Doctors at the state-run St George’s Hospital, located near Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CSMT), successfully removed a massive 10.4 kg ovarian tumour from Meena Solanki, a 40-year-old woman residing near Crawford Market.
Drastic Weight Change Post-Surgery
Dr. Rajshree Katke, who led the surgery nine days ago, shared that Solanki weighed just 30 kg before the operation. Following the tumour removal, her weight dropped by over 20 kg. “The tumour had grown so large that it displaced her internal organs and took up the space equivalent to five or six babies,” Dr. Katke explained.
Delayed Diagnosis Due to Misinterpretation
Huge ovarian tumours have become rare in recent years, largely because of early detection during routine gynaecological exams. However, Solanki had mistaken her growing abdomen for early menopause. “I assumed I was going through menopause and that it was causing the abdominal swelling,” she said.
Declining Health Prompted Medical Help
Living with her mother and brother, and unmarried, Solanki shared how friends would often tease her about looking pregnant. In recent months, her condition worsened—she began vomiting after meals and suffered from severe weakness and malnourishment. A concerned social worker finally brought her to St George’s Hospital, where doctors discovered the enormous ovarian mass.
Tumour Threatened Vital Organs
A resident doctor at the hospital noted that the tumour was pressing against multiple organs, including the intestines, lungs, liver, heart, kidneys, and major blood vessels. Such large tumours not only carry the risk of being cancerous but can also cause life-threatening complications due to their size and pressure on vital systems.
Awaiting Histopathology for Final Diagnosis
As reported by TOI, Dr. Katke stated that they are still awaiting the tumour’s histopathology report. “If it turns out to be malignant, the patient will need chemotherapy,” she said. Currently, Solanki is recovering well, has started walking, and is preparing for discharge.
Not the First for Dr Katke
This isn’t the first time Dr. Katke has tackled such a rare and complex case. In 2021, she removed a 10 kg tumour from a woman who was seven months pregnant. Similarly, doctors in Bengaluru had extracted a 13 kg ovarian tumour from a 64-year-old woman.
A Grateful Patient, A Life Saved
Thanks to timely intervention and skilled surgery, Solanki now looks forward to a healthier life after enduring months of pain, isolation, and uncertainty.