Mumbai, March 2026:
A 50-year-old woman from rural Maharashtra underwent successful removal of a large 14x10 cm abdominal tumour at Wockhardt Hospitals after the mass was incidentally detected during evaluation for a ureteric calculus (kidney stone). The surgery was performed by Dr Sanjay Sonar, Consultant Advanced Laparoscopy Surgeon and Abdominal Wall Reconstruction Surgeon, who removed the tumour laparoscopically within two hours without causing damage to surrounding vital organs.

The tumour was discovered during a Computed Tomography (CT) scan conducted for kidney stone assessment. Imaging revealed a large growth on the left side of the abdomen, located behind the colon and in front of the left kidney. The mass was pushing the tail of the pancreas forward and displacing the lower pole of the spleen upwards, making its position surgically challenging. A subsequent Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan showed low metabolic uptake.

Given the size of the tumour — measuring 14 cm in width — and its proximity to critical structures such as the ureter, kidney, pancreas, colon and spleen, the case required meticulous planning. Large abdominal tumours, particularly those above 7–8 cm, are technically demanding to manage due to limited working space and the risk of injury to nearby organs.

“The tumour was situated in a very delicate anatomical location,” said Dr Sanjay Sonar. “It was closely related to multiple vital organs. The main challenge was to remove it completely while preserving all surrounding structures. With careful dissection, we were able to successfully excise the mass without harming the kidney, ureter, pancreas, colon or spleen.”

The laparoscopic excision biopsy lasted approximately two hours. The minimally invasive approach helped reduce post-operative pain, blood loss and hospital stay. The patient recovered well after surgery and was discharged within three days. Within a few days of returning home, she resumed walking independently and performing routine household activities.

One month after the procedure, she continues to recover well and remains under regular follow-up.

The case highlights how timely diagnosis and advanced laparoscopic expertise can help manage even large and complex abdominal tumours safely, particularly when they are discovered incidentally during routine investigations.