A 50-year-old woman from rural Maharashtra underwent successful removal of a large abdominal tumour measuring 14 × 10 cm at Wockhardt Hospitals. Doctors discovered the mass incidentally while evaluating her for a ureteric calculus (kidney stone).
Dr. Sanjay Sonar, Consultant Advanced Laparoscopy Surgeon and Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Surgeon, performed the surgery using a laparoscopic approach and removed the tumour within two hours without damaging surrounding vital organs.
Tumour Discovered During Kidney Stone Evaluation
Doctors initially performed a Computed Tomography (CT) scan to assess the patient’s kidney stone. However, the scan unexpectedly revealed a large growth on the left side of the abdomen. The tumour was located behind the colon and in front of the left kidney, placing it in a complex anatomical position.
Moreover, the mass had begun affecting surrounding structures. It pushed the tail of the pancreas forward and displaced the lower pole of the spleen upward, which further complicated the surgical planning. To evaluate the tumour’s activity, doctors conducted a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan, which showed low metabolic uptake.
Surgical Planning for a Complex Anatomical Location
Given the tumour’s considerable size 14 cm in width and its proximity to critical organs such as the ureter, kidney, pancreas, colon, and spleen, the case required meticulous planning.
Large abdominal tumours, particularly those exceeding 7–8 cm, often present significant surgical challenges. Limited working space and the high risk of injuring nearby organs demand precise surgical technique and careful dissection.
Laparoscopic Surgery Performed with Precision
Dr. Sanjay Sonar successfully performed a laparoscopic excision biopsy, completing the procedure in approximately two hours.
“The tumour was situated in a very delicate anatomical location,” said Dr. Sonar. “It was closely related to multiple vital organs. Therefore, the main challenge was to remove it completely while preserving all surrounding structures. With careful dissection, we successfully excised the mass without harming the kidney, ureter, pancreas, colon, or spleen.”
Faster Recovery with Minimally Invasive Approach
As per the press release, the minimally invasive laparoscopic technique significantly reduced post-operative pain, blood loss, and hospital stay. As a result, the patient recovered smoothly and was discharged within three days.
Soon after returning home, she resumed independent walking and routine household activities, demonstrating the benefits of the minimally invasive approach.
Continued Recovery and Follow-Up
One month after the procedure, the patient continues to recover well and remains under regular medical follow-up to monitor her progress.
Importance of Early Detection and Advanced Surgical Expertise
This case highlights how timely diagnosis combined with advanced laparoscopic expertise can successfully manage even large and complex abdominal tumours. Furthermore, it underscores the value of routine diagnostic imaging, which can detect serious conditions incidentally and allow timely intervention.