In a tale of medical triumph and human resilience, doctors at HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC) in Nashik successfully removed a tricky bilateral adrenal tumour from 21-year-old Mohammed Zaid, who had been grappling with a life-threatening condition called pheochromocytoma. This complex and risky surgery, which lasted over six and a half hours, was performed despite Zaid’s severe and uncontrolled hypertension. Hailing from Malegaon, Zaid had been living with uncontrolled hypertension that rendered previous treatment attempts ineffective. The journey to recovery began when he arrived at HCGMCC, seeking help for his relentless medical condition. Under the leadership of Dr Raj Nagarkar, Managing Director & Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services, the medical team embarked on a mission to save Zaid’s life.

“When Mohammed Zaid came to us, he was suffering from severe, uncontrolled hypertension. Despite medication, his blood pressure remained unmanageable. Earlier medical tests at other national institutions revealed a growing mass near his adrenal gland, leading to the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma. This mass caused significant hormonal imbalances, resulting in his fluctuating blood pressure. The stakes were high, with the risk of increased blood pressure during surgery and a potential dangerous drop afterward,” says Dr Raj Nagarkar, Managing Director & Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC) & Hospitals.

Before arriving at HCGMCC, Zaid had undergone multiple medical interventions. Medications and procedures like chemoembolization, aimed at halting blood flow to the tumour, proved unsuccessful. He even suffered a stroke (cerebral haemorrhage and paralysis) post-procedure and MIBG therapy, a nuclear medicine treatment, showed limited success.

“Upon his visit to our outpatient department (OPD), we thoroughly reviewed his medical reports and consulted with our radiology team. The tumour was obstructing blood flow to vital organs like the stomach, kidneys and liver. Given the complexity and risks involved, we decided to proceed with surgery, fully informing the patient’s family about the potential dangers,” adds Dr Nagarkar.

Despite the high risk, the dedicated surgical team, including Dr Vikas Jain, Dr Rajendra Dhondge, Dr Owais Sayyed, Dr Shaudharya V., Dr Praveenkumar Surpur; anaesthesia experts Dr Nayana Kulkarni, Dr Ravindra Tandale and Dr Jitendra Mahajan; and intensivist Dr Purva Magarkar successfully executed the surgery.

Pheochromocytoma is a condition where a tumour around the adrenal gland disrupts hormonal balance, leading to uncontrolled hypertension. Symptoms often include persistent headaches and irregular heartbeats. The surgery’s success stands as a testament to the advanced medical capabilities and compassionate care at HCG Manavata Cancer Centre, offering renewed hope to patients facing similar life-threatening conditions.

“The patient’s blood pressure normalized immediately post-surgery, eliminating the need for further medication. Mohammed Zaid was transferred from the ICU to a regular ward within a day and began eating normally soon after. The successful surgery not only highlights our team’s skill and precision but also our commitment to providing exceptional patient care,” concludes Dr Nagarkar.

Zaid’s story is one of hope and determination, underscoring the importance of advanced medical interventions and the dedication of healthcare professionals in overcoming even the most daunting medical challenges.