A 31-year-old woman from Kota, Rajasthan has recently undergone a surgery performed partially by a robot, according to The Tribune. The intention of the surgery was to remove two tumors caused by multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2A (MEN2A), one on the adrenal gland and one on the thyroid. The doctors utilized robots in the operation due to the intense need for precision; it can be difficult to operate on these parts of the body without damaging the muscles or blood vessels running through them.

About the Case

The woman was originally admitted to Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals on January 7. She complained of a swollen neck and a hoarse voice that began two months before. Upon evaluation, doctors discovered two tumors, which were quickly connected to MEN2A.

A multidisciplinary approach was utilized for this patient, and a surgery was quickly scheduled. Doctors decided to use a robot to assist in the procedure, as it leads to minimal blood loss and less risk of complication both during and after the operation.

The surgery went well, and surgeons were able to remove both of the tumors without issue. The patient remained in the hospital for the next 48 hours for post-operative care before being discharged on January 16.

Looking Forward

The doctors involved with this woman’s case point out a larger issue: rare disease awareness and diagnosis. They noted that her brother and father both passed away due to MEN2A, partly due to a lack of awareness within the general population and healthcare professionals.

There are no early symptoms that are specific to this condition, making prompt diagnosis difficult. As a quick diagnosis is absolutely necessary for a patient to experience the best outcome, many patients often find themselves with limited treatment options. Early surgery is best, as the tumors can become malignant and resistant to chemotherapy and other cancer treatments.

Medical professionals from Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals stress the importance of awareness and believe that the woman’s relatives and village should receive medical and genetic testing for MEN2A.  They don’t want anybody to face a poor outcome if they do have the condition.