Mohan Kuthar
Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru
Mangaluru, May 7: A 7-year-old girl has made a successful recovery following a complex thyroid cancer surgery performed at the Zulekha Yenepoya Institute of Endocrine and Oncology, part of Yenepoya Medical College Hospital in Deralakatte. The advanced procedure was carried out with the help of cutting-edge technology and a skilled team of doctors, said Dr Jalaluddin Akbar, head of the oncology division.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Zulekha Yenepoya Institute, Dr Akbar shared that this was the first time in his 30-year medical career that he had performed such a surgery on a child. The girl had been brought to the hospital by her parents after noticing a swelling in her neck. Tests confirmed it was a papillary carcinoma of the thyroid, which had spread to both sides of the neck.
Faced with a delicate case, a team comprising Dr H T Amar Rao, Dr Noor Mohammed, and endocrinologist Dr Preeti decided to proceed with surgery. The presence of parathyroid cancer made the case more complex, as it had spread across the neck and required preserving critical nerves—particularly those connected to the vocal cords and shoulder mobility. After detailed planning, the surgery was successfully completed using advanced hospital equipment. The child has now recovered 99%, and final assessment will be made after a session of radioiodine therapy. Post-treatment, the girl is expected to lead a completely normal life. The treatment, which would typically cost Rs 2 to 3 lac, was provided free of cost under the Ayushman Bharat scheme.
Dr Noor Mohammed stated that operating on children for thyroid cancer presents greater challenges compared to adults, and this particular procedure lasted about nine hours. Remarkably, the child showed signs of comfort the very next day. He emphasised that timely medical attention made this outcome possible.
Hospital superintendent Habeeb Rehman noted that accurate diagnosis of thyroid cancer was achieved through the coordinated efforts of multiple departments and surgical teams. He highlighted the hospital’s expert staff and state-of-the-art facilities, which have enabled them to successfully handle many such complex surgeries.
Present during the press meet were Dr H T Amar Rao, assistant medical superintendent Dr Nagaraj, pediatric specialist Dr Anita Prabhu, nursing superintendent Satyavati Devi, assistant medical director Dr Boni Paul, and Mohammed Sabith.
Ayushman Scheme needs policy reforms: Dr Nagaraj
Dr Nagaraj pointed out that despite being covered under the Ayushman Bharat scheme, patients are often unable to receive treatment in private hospitals without a referral letter from government hospitals in their respective districts. This creates hurdles for patients coming from distant places like Shivamogga and Davangere to Yenepoya Hospital. Many are unaware of this requirement and are forced to return to their home districts to obtain the necessary documentation. He urged the Union Ministry of Health to simplify the policy for BPL cardholders so that Ayushman beneficiaries can more easily access treatment in private hospitals.
BJP Minority Morcha leader recalls his recovery
State secretary of the BJP minority morcha, Jessel D’Souza, shared a personal note of gratitude, recalling that he had been diagnosed with thyroid cancer at age 16 just before appearing for his SSLC exams. He had a swelling in his neck and consulted doctors, which led to a diagnosis. Dr Jalaluddin Akbar performed his surgery, encouraged him to go ahead with his exams, and helped him recover completely. Jessel says he will always remain indebted to the doctor who gave him a second chance at life and reminds others that cancer is not to be feared if diagnosed and treated early.