A middle-aged man from Somalia has finally returned home after four difficult years. He battled unbearable headaches and frightening seizures. His life transformed completely following complex brain tumour surgery at a private hospital in Pune.
The Discovery and Journey to India
In October 2025, doctors in Somalia conducted an MRI scan. The scan revealed a serious problem. A well-defined but aggressive vascular lesion was growing in the right frontal region of his brain. This discovery set his recovery journey in motion.
The hospital's international patient support team quickly stepped in. They coordinated all necessary documentation and medical visa procedures. "Once the patient received his medical visa, we began preparations for the surgery," said neurosurgeon Dr Abhinandan Magdum from Inamdar Hospital.
The man arrived in India on November 10 last year. He visited the hospital two days later for initial consultations and further investigations. After a full health evaluation, doctors admitted him under Dr Magdum's care on November 21.
A Delicate and Dangerous Tumour
Doctors identified a major challenge immediately. The tumour sat dangerously close to a critical brain structure. It was abutting the superior sagittal sinus. This major vein drains blood from the brain.
"Its location was the biggest challenge," Dr Magdum explained. "The tumour was abutting the superior sagittal sinus and any injury to this area can cause severe bleeding."
Considering the patient's persistent symptoms and the tumour's vascular nature, the medical team recommended surgical removal. It was the best path forward.
The Complex Surgical Procedure
Surgeons performed a craniotomy, a type of brain surgery. They carefully dissected the lesion to achieve complete removal. The operation required extreme precision.
"The tumour was highly vascular, requiring constant haemostasis," Dr Magdum noted. Haemostasis means controlling blood flow. "Our aim was total excision without damaging the superior sagittal sinus."
The team succeeded in their delicate task. They removed the tumour completely while protecting the vital vein.
Recovery and Diagnosis
After surgery, medical staff monitored the patient closely in the ICU. They watched for seizures and any early complications. His recovery progressed smoothly.
"He remained stable, experienced no further seizures and continued recovering without any weakness, speech issues or other neurological problems," a doctor reported.
Histopathology tests provided the final diagnosis. The tumour was a grade 1 meningioma. This is a benign and slow-growing type. However, it showed a high mitotic index, indicating rapid cell proliferation. This meant a greater risk of recurrence. Doctors advised regular follow-up imaging to monitor his health.
Discharge and Return Home
The patient completed two post-surgery consultations under the hospital's follow-up protocol. Doctors declared him stable and discharged him on December 1 last year.
He received final medical clearance to fly and travelled back to his home in Somalia on January 6. His long medical journey had reached a successful conclusion.
A Patient's Grateful Reflection
The man reflected on his difficult experience with heartfelt gratitude. "When my headaches and seizures began, I was scared and didn't know where to turn," he shared.
"From the first phone call to the day I walked out, everything was handled with care. I feel completely recovered and am grateful to the doctors and the hospital team in Pune for giving me my life back."
An Important Medical Warning
The doctors involved issued a crucial warning for the public. They emphasised that certain symptoms should never be ignored.
Persistent headaches, new seizures, visual disturbances, vomiting or sudden neurological changes all require immediate medical attention. "Early diagnosis changes outcomes," Dr Magdum added firmly.
This case highlights how advanced medical care in Indian cities like Pune can offer hope and healing to international patients facing complex health challenges.
