Rare heart tumor removed via keyhole surgery

A remarkable feat of medical intervention was achieved by doctors at SIMS Hospitals, who successfully removed a rare tumor from the left ventricle of a 45-year-old working professional. This complex procedure, involving a tumor approximately 1.5 cm in size, was performed using an advanced keyhole surgery technique, avoiding the need for conventional open-heart surgery.

This type of cardiac tumor, specifically located in the heart's main pumping chamber, is exceptionally rare, with an incidence rate estimated at one in 20 to 30 million people. Doctors noted that such tumors typically arise from random cellular changes, with genetic factors playing a minor role in only 5-10% of cases.

The minimally invasive endoscopic procedure involved a small incision between the ribs, enabling surgeons to access and remove the tumor while the patient was supported by a heart-lung machine. This technique not only prevented potential complications like stroke and leg pain but also significantly expedited recovery to two weeks, offering reduced pain, blood loss, and a nearly invisible scar compared to traditional sternotomy methods.