03/12/2025
"High-risk surgeries reveal courage — both in the surgeon and the patient."
Last week, a 75-year-old malnourished lady was brought to our casualty at Pt JLNGMC Chamba with clear signs of a closed-loop obstruction, and her colon was visibly distended. Diagnosis further confirmed by xray abdomen and CECT abdomen.
Her condition was extremely high-risk due to advanced age, anemia, and very low protein levels, but delaying surgery was not an option.
During surgery (laparotomy):
We discovered a stricture-forming growth in the sigmoid colon, which had caused massive proximal dilation upto caecum — nearly 12 cm. Considering the severity, a Hartmann’s procedure was performed to relieve the obstruction and remove the diseased segment safely.
Post-operative Outcome:
Despite her frail condition, the patient is recovering well. Her strength and willpower continue to inspire us.
This case reminds us that timely intervention, skilled surgical judgment, and coordinated teamwork can save even the most high-risk patients.