Kolkata : In a groundbreaking medical achievement, HCG EKO Cancer Centre in Newtown, Kolkata, recently performed the complex robot-assisted right hepatectomy on a 65-years-old Mr. Pankaj (name changed), who was suffering from liver cancer. The successful surgery was performed by Dr. S. K. Bala, Senior Surgical Oncologist, HCG Kolkata and Dr. Devendra Parikh, Senior Robotic Cancer Surgeon, HCG Ahmedabad, marking a historic milestone for the first time in Eastern India.
Mr. Pankaj (name changed), a seasoned adventurer who conquered six peaks over 5000 meters, faced a frightening challenge at the age of 65 when he started suffering from excessive weight loss and weakness. After an initial diagnosis at a private hospital in Kolkata, it was revealed that the patient was suffering from stage 2 liver cancer. Post which he was referred to HCG EKO Cancer Centre- the leading cancer centre in handling robot assisted cancer surgeries for gastrointestinal cancer (which includes colon, rectum, oesophagus, and stomach), and hepatobiliary pancreas cancers (which include liver, gall bladder and pancreas) in the whole eastern India.
The patient presented himself to HCG EKO Cancer Centre Kolkata and was referred to Dr. S.K. Bala. He was further suggested certain clinical tests to understand upon his current stage of medical condition. Post evaluation of his test reports, Dr. Bala considered the complexity of his case and advised him to undergo a robotic- assisted surgery known for its precision and minimal invasive approach.
The patient underwent the robot assisted Right Hepatectomy surgery which was performed by Dr. S.K. Bala, Dr. Devendra Parikh, and their team of doctors. This surgery is considered one of the most intricate and challenging procedures in the medical field as it involved the removal of 60-70% of the liver, leaving only 30-40% of the normal liver behind. Liver cancers are rare, and operable cases are even rarer, making this robotic surgery a complex one.
Dr. S. K. Bala, Senior Surgical Oncologist, HCG EKO Cancer Centre, Kolkata, shared his thoughts on the case and commented, “As a medical professional, every case presents its unique challenges, and this case also came with its own set of complexities. This successful robotic surgery marks a turning point in our approach to liver malignancies. The use of advanced and cutting-edge technologies not only enhances precision but also significantly reduces postoperative complications, allowing for a smoother and quicker recovery. In the case of Mr. Pankaj, he was up and walking within 48 hours post-surgery and was discharged on the 7th day. This takes lesser stay compared to traditional open surgical approaches, which typically require a hospital stay of 10 to 14 days. This case underscores the power of innovation in healthcare and fuels our commitment to pushing boundaries for the benefit of our patients.”
Mr. Pankaj expressed his thankfulness by stating, “I chose the path less travelled, both in climbing peaks and in my medical journey. Opting for robot-assisted surgery, was the right and life-changing decision, and I’m grateful to Dr. S.K. Bala and the skilled team of doctors at HCG EKO Cancer Centre for their expertise in ensuring my swift recovery and bringing my life back to normalcy.”
With this successful surgery, HCG EKO Cancer Centre, Kolkata stands at the forefront of advancing medical care in Eastern India, pioneering innovative technological solutions for the benefit of patients facing complex cancer health challenges.
