The Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh has achieved a groundbreaking medical milestone by successfully operating on a 7.7-foot-tall Jammu and Kashmir police head constable, Sunil Kumar, the tallest patient ever treated at the institute. This 35-year-old patient underwent surgery to address a pituitary tumor causing acromegaly, a rare hormonal disorder responsible for his extraordinary height. This article explores the details of this remarkable procedure, the challenges of treating acromegaly, and PGIMER’s role as a leader in neurosurgical care.
What is Acromegaly?
Acromegaly is a rare condition caused by excessive growth hormone production, typically due to a benign pituitary tumor. This hormonal imbalance leads to abnormal growth of bones and tissues, resulting in enlarged extremities, facial features, and, in extreme cases, significant height increases. For Sunil Kumar, acromegaly caused his 7.7-foot stature and symptoms like joint pain, vision issues, and difficulty with daily tasks. Left untreated, acromegaly can lead to serious complications, including heart disease and diabetes.
Symptoms of Acromegaly
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Enlarged hands, feet, and facial features
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Persistent joint pain
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Vision impairment
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Fatigue and weakness
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Increased risk of cardiovascular issues
The Surgical Procedure
PGIMER’s Department of Neurosurgery performed a minimally invasive endoscopic transnasal surgery to remove Sunil Kumar’s pituitary tumor. This technique involves accessing the pituitary gland through the nasal cavity, avoiding external incisions and reducing recovery time. The procedure was supported by a neuroanaesthesia team led by Dr. Rajeev Chauhan, with OT technician Gurpreet Singh ensuring operational success. Post-surgery, Kumar’s hormone levels normalized, and his symptoms improved significantly within weeks.
PGIMER’s Expertise in Neurosurgery
PGIMER has treated over 100 pituitary tumor cases using advanced techniques like endoscopic transnasal surgery and Gamma Knife radiosurgery. The institute’s multidisciplinary approach, involving neurosurgeons, endocrinologists, and anesthesiologists, ensures comprehensive care. Prof. Vivek Lal, PGIMER Director, praised the team’s precision and teamwork, highlighting the institute’s role as a premier referral hospital for northern India.
Raising Awareness About Acromegaly
Sunil Kumar’s case underscores the need for early diagnosis of acromegaly, as symptoms often develop gradually and may be overlooked. Diagnostic tests like IGF-1 levels and MRI scans are crucial for identifying pituitary tumors. PGIMER’s success in treating such cases emphasizes the importance of specialized medical centers in managing rare conditions.
PGIMER’s Broader Contributions
Beyond clinical excellence, PGIMER supports regional healthcare through initiatives like blood donation drives for jawans and partnerships with organizations like the State Bank of India for patient accessibility. The upcoming Advanced Neurosciences Centre will further enhance its capacity to treat complex cases.
Conclusion
The successful treatment of Sunil Kumar marks a significant achievement for PGIMER Chandigarh, showcasing its expertise in neurosurgery and commitment to patient care. This case not only highlights the institute’s advanced capabilities but also raises awareness about rare conditions like acromegaly, offering hope to patients across India.