Doctors at CARE Hospitals, Malakpet, have successfully performed a highly complex laparoscopic surgery on a 65-year-old woman from Eluru district suffering from extremely rare duodenal cancer, which accounts for less than one per cent of gastrointestinal cancers. After several hospitals declined surgery due to high risk, the CARE medical team undertook the challenging Whipple’s procedure and saved her life. The patient made a rapid recovery and was discharged within five days.

Duodenal cancer is among the rarest and most difficult gastrointestinal cancers to treat surgically. After detailed evaluations and meticulous pre-operative planning, the surgery was led by Dr. Bhoopathi Rajendra Prasad, Senior Surgical Gastroenterologist and Robotic Surgeon, along with a multidisciplinary team.

Performing the Whipple’s procedure laparoscopically is extremely rare and complex. The case was further complicated by low haemoglobin, malnutrition, a large tumour obstructing food passage, and the tumour’s proximity to the intestine. Despite these challenges, the operation was completed successfully.

Post-surgery, the patient recovered without complications and is now pain-free, mobile and able to eat normally. Hospital officials highlighted that expert planning, teamwork and compassionate care were key to the successful outcome.