Mangaluru: A team of gynaecologists from Father Muller Medical College and Hospital successfully removed a massive 8kg uterine fibroid from a 52-year-old woman in a complex and life-improving surgical procedure.The surgery, performed on July 15, was led by Dr Sujaya V Rao along with team members Dr Joylene D, Dr Ektha Shetty, Dr Vismaya K, Dr Diya M, and Dr Nayana F from the department of obstetrics and gynaecology.The patient experienced heavy menstrual bleeding, abdominal swelling, and pressure-related symptoms for several years, which affected her quality of life. “The tumour was so large that it occupied a large portion of her abdomen and caused the patient to sway,” explained Dr Joylene D’Almeida.Imaging revealed a 20 cm-wide fibroid, probably one of the largest documented in the region. The surgical team performed a hysterectomy with oophorectomy for removal, considering the patient’s age and symptoms.The fibroid, weighing 8kg, occupied nearly the entire volume of a 20-litre surgical bucket. Measuring approximately 20cm in diameter, it was roughly equivalent to the size and weight of a newborn baby or three large coconuts combined.“Seeing the fibroid in the bucket after removal really highlighted the extent of the pressure it was exerting on the patient’s organs,”said Dr Ektha Shetty. It was a powerful visual representation of what the patient endured internally for years, she said.Such large fibroids are exceedingly rare, particularly in postmenopausal women, and pose significant surgical challenges due to their vascularity and anatomical distortion.“Cases like this are extremely rare, especially in postmenopausal women. Our focus was on ensuring complete removal with careful dissection and minimal complications,” said Dr Vismaya. The patient is now stable and recovering well. The hospital expects to discharge her within the week.The surgical team was supported by a skilled team of anaesthetists comprising Dr Karl R, Dr Shamana Shetty and Dr Vidyashree.The team said, “Women need to be encouraged to seek medical help early when symptoms appear. Not all fibroids grow to this size, and most can be managed conservatively.”Director FMCI Fr Faustine Lobo, dean FMMCH Dr Antony Sylvan, and HoD obstetrics and gynaecology Dr Deepa K extended support to the team.
