Lucknow: A 16-year-old boy from Kunda recovered after undergoing surgery to remove a tumour from the brainstem, a part of the brain that controls essential functions such as breathing, heartbeat and swallowing. Doctors said several hospitals earlier advised against surgery because of the risk of severe disability or death.The teenager was experiencing weakness in his arms and legs, difficulty swallowing, facial imbalance and problems with eye movement. He was referred to Kalyan Singh Super Speciality Cancer Institute (KSSSCI), where doctors performed an eight-hour surgery to remove the tumour. The boy recovered and was discharged, hospital authorities said.The brainstem acts as the body’s command centre, carrying messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Because it contains nerves that control many critical functions, surgery in this area is considered among the most challenging procedures in neurosurgery.Doctors said they used advanced image-guided technology that enabled them to pinpoint the tumour’s exact location and plan the safest route to reach it. A surgical microscope helped magnify tiny nerves, while specialised monitoring equipment continuously checked nerve activity during the operation to reduce the chances of damage.Prof Vijendra Kumar, chief medical superintendent and head of neurosurgery, said the tumour was removed without harming nearby nerve structures. “The tumour was located in an extremely sensitive area. Detailed planning and continuous monitoring during surgery helped us minimise risks and safely remove it,” he said.The surgery was carried out by Prof Vijendra Kumar along with Dr Amit Kumar Upadhyay, Dr Ravi Ranjan and Dr Sanjeev. The anaesthesia team was led by Dr Richa Rai. Medical superintendent Dr Varun Vijay said the patient recovered well after the procedure and was discharged in stable condition.
