In a case that underscores the critical intersection of mental health and medical emergencies, doctors at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital successfully performed a life-saving surgery on a 20-year-old man who ingested a shaving razor following an emotional outburst. The incident occurred after an argument with his father, who also struggles with mental health issues, highlighting the family’s compounded challenges.

The young man, battling depression and suicidal tendencies, ingested the razor in two separate pieces: the blade holder, which became lodged in his stomach, and the handle, which traveled to his large intestine. The case presented unique medical and psychological complexities, requiring a highly skilled and empathetic approach from the hospital’s surgical team.

A multidisciplinary team of surgeons, led by Dr. Tarun Mittal and including Dr. Anmol Ahuja, Dr. Shresth Manglik, Dr. Rakesh S., Dr. Karthik Krishna, and Dr. Tanushree Nahata, conducted a carefully planned two-step procedure. The first phase involved a laparotomy to surgically open the stomach and remove the blade holder. In the second phase, the handle was delicately manipulated through the colon and extracted using a sigmoidoscopy.

Reflecting on the case, Dr. Tarun Mittal described it as a challenging scenario not only because of the nature of the foreign object but also due to the underlying mental health issues. He stressed the importance of addressing psychological health alongside physical ailments, urging people to seek timely help and overcome the stigma associated with mental illness. “Fear and shame often discourage individuals from seeking care, which can lead to dangerous situations,” he said.

The young man has physically recovered from the surgery and is now being referred for counseling to address his emotional and mental health. His family, recognizing the critical need for support, is also seeking treatment for his father’s mental health challenges.

The patient’s mother expressed her heartfelt gratitude, stating, “We are deeply relieved and thankful to the doctors for their prompt action and care.”

Dr. Ajay Swaroop, Chairman of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, praised the surgical team for their precision and compassionate approach. He reiterated the hospital’s commitment to providing holistic care, emphasizing the importance of addressing mental health issues alongside physical health. “This case highlights the growing need to look after individuals struggling with emotional distress, and we are committed to delivering care that encompasses both mental and physical well-being,” he said.

This case serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for greater mental health awareness, early intervention, and societal support to prevent such incidents. Sir Ganga Ram Hospital continues to set an example with its integrated approach to care, saving lives while addressing the root causes of such emergencies.