AIIMS Patna Surgeons Achieve Rare Medical Feat with High-Risk Fish Bone Removal
In a remarkable display of surgical precision, doctors at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences Patna (AIIMS-Patna) have successfully performed a high-risk neurosurgical procedure to remove a 35mm fish bone lodged dangerously close to the cervical spine of a 42-year-old patient. This complex operation, conducted in March, has now gained national recognition, highlighting the institute's expertise in managing rare and critical medical emergencies.
Details of the Critical Surgical Procedure
The surgery was carried out on March 9 by a dedicated neurosurgery team led by Dr Saraj Kumar Singh, with Dr Kranti Bhavna as a key member. The operation commenced at 9:00 AM and lasted for an intense 4 hours and 5 minutes, during which the team navigated one of the body's most delicate regions with exceptional care.
According to the official press release issued on Thursday, the case was classified as extremely critical due to the fish bone's proximity to the cervical spine. Any minor error during the procedure could have resulted in permanent disability for the patient, underscoring the high stakes involved.
Surgeons Reflect on the Delicate Operation
Dr Saraj Kumar Singh described the challenge of operating so close to the spine as akin to "working on the most delicate line of life," emphasizing the precision required to avoid nerve damage and prevent further complications. Dr Kranti Bhavna added that the team's efforts went beyond mere surgical technique, stating they "did not just perform a surgery but preserved the patient’s faith and hope during a moment of grave risk."
The surgical team meticulously advanced through the sensitive spinal region, successfully extracting the foreign object without causing additional harm. This achievement has been acknowledged in a national record publication, placing AIIMS Patna's accomplishment among notable medical milestones.
Institutional Leadership Praises the Achievement
AIIMS-Patna executive director Prof (Brig) Dr Raju Agrawal commended the surgical team, describing the success as a clear reflection of the institute's excellence, unwavering commitment, and advanced medical capabilities. This recognition not only celebrates a single procedure but also reinforces AIIMS Patna's standing as a center for handling complex neurosurgical cases.
The rare nature of this surgery—involving a fish bone embedded near the cervical spine—demonstrates the institute's readiness to tackle unusual and high-risk medical scenarios, offering hope and advanced care to patients facing severe health challenges.
