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Girl's 12-Stone Leg Removed in 17-Hour Surgery
13 Mar
Summary
- A 14-year-old girl underwent a 17-hour operation to remove a massive leg.
- The removed leg weighed 12 stone, more than double her body weight.
- The leg was affected by a rare lymphomatous tumor, diagnosed when she was five.
Jasmine Ramirez, a 14-year-old from Florida, has undergone a life-saving 17-hour surgery to amputate her left leg. This drastic measure was taken after a rare lymphomatous tumor caused her leg to grow to an immense size, weighing 12 stone—more than double her body weight of five and a half stone post-operation.
Initially diagnosed at age five, the non-cancerous but aggressive tumor resisted multiple debulking surgeries performed between ages six and 14. Each surgery removed tumor and abnormal tissue, but it consistently regrew, leading to significant pain and mobility issues for Jasmine. By her early teens, her leg's weight was comparable to an adult's, necessitating special clothing and eventually a wheelchair.
The critical turning point occurred in May 2024, when an infection developed following her last debulking procedure. The infection proved resistant to antibiotics and posed a fatal risk of spreading to her bloodstream. Doctors presented Jasmine and her parents with the choice between her life and her leg.
Ultimately, the family agreed to the amputation, performed at John Hopkins All Children's Hospital. The surgery was successful, and Jasmine, though initially struggling with the loss, is now recovering and anticipates receiving a prosthetic leg soon. She dreams of regaining full mobility to enjoy activities like going to Disneyworld and riding all the attractions.
Doctors plan to study Jasmine's leg and tumor to better understand her unique condition. The family is sharing their story to raise awareness and support Jasmine's recovery.
