In a remarkable turnaround, a 64-year-old man diagnosed with Stage-2 soft tissue cancer, specifically liposarcoma, has defied the odds and regained the ability to walk after a complex surgery at the Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC). The patient had been bedridden for over six months, burdened by a hefty 3 kg tumor in his leg.

The pivotal surgery, lasting seven hours, was conducted by a specialized team from RGCIRC’s Orthopaedic Oncology and Plastic Surgery departments, under the leadership of Dr. Himanshu Rohela and Dr. Rajan Arora. Their combined expertise was crucial in executing the intricate procedure.

Following the surgery, the patient was declared cancer-free, marking a significant milestone in his fight against the disease. Prior to his arrival at RGCIRC, he had been advised to undergo amputation, a daunting prospect that he faced with trepidation. Remarkably, just one day after the surgery, he took his first steps toward recovery.

Dr. Himanshu Rohela, a consultant in Orthopaedic Oncology and a key member of the surgical team, shared insights into the decision-making process. “The patient initially sought our opinion after being advised to undergo amputation,” he explained. “He had a history of two previous surgeries, which complicated matters. Upon reviewing his case, we decided to proceed with tumor removal instead. We operated on him three days later and successfully excised the tumor.”

The surgery was fraught with challenges due to the tumor's size and location, which was critically entwined with the sciatic nerve. The surgical team faced two primary hurdles: preserving the neurovascular structures and addressing the involvement of major vessels in the lower limb. Their meticulous approach involved separating the blood vessels from the tumor, ensuring the leg’s functionality while successfully removing the malignancy without amputation.

This surgical success highlights the advanced capabilities of RGCIRC’s multi-disciplinary team, showcasing their commitment to providing innovative solutions for complex cancer cases. As the patient embarks on his journey to recovery, his story serves as an inspiring testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the remarkable advancements in cancer care.