Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) has successfully removed a rare holocord intramedullary spinal cord tumour from an 18-year-old girl following a marathon 11-hour surgery, a procedure described as one of the most demanding ever undertaken in the region.
The operation, as per a statement, required a 17-level laminoplasty along with the meticulous removal of a tumour located within the spinal cord, a challenge that only a limited number of neurosurgical centres attempt worldwide. The surgery, the statement reads, was led by Dr. Abrar Ahad Wani, Professor and Head of Unit, Department of Neurosurgery, supported by a skilled team of surgeons.
"Equally crucial was the role of the Anaesthesia Department, headed by Dr. Zulfikar Ali, which provided continuous high-risk neuro-anaesthesia support throughout the extended procedure, ensuring uninterrupted physiological stability of the young patient."
Hospital authorities said that the patient is in stable condition post-surgery and is demonstrating encouraging neurological recovery.
A family member expressed deep gratitude to SKIMS, saying, “We come from a modest background and could not have afforded treatment outside. SKIMS treated our daughter free of cost. She was suffering and losing strength each day. Today, she has hope again. We are thankful to Prof. Abrar Ahad Wani and the entire SKIMS team for giving her a new life.”
Director SKIMS & EOSG, Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie, commended the medical teams for their exemplary performance. “This complex 11-hour surgery highlights the exceptional expertise and commitment of our Neurosurgery and Anaesthesia Departments. It is an achievement that brings pride to SKIMS and reflects our mission of providing advanced, compassionate, and equitable healthcare to the people of Jammu & Kashmir,” he said.
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