Manipur’s Milestone in Neurosurgery: First Awake Craniotomy Successfully Performed
Summary
Manipur marked a significant advancement in healthcare by performing its first-ever awake craniotomy at Little Clinic. The surgery, led by Dr. Chandrakumar Thounaojam, removed a tumor near critical brain regions without general anesthesia. This complex, four-hour procedure allowed real-time monitoring of the patient’s motor functions, significantly reducing paralysis and speech impairment risks. This achievement highlights the state’s growing medical expertise and commitment to innovative treatments.
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Introduction to Awake Craniotomy in Manipur
Awake craniotomy is a revolutionary procedure allowing surgeons to remove brain tumors while patients are fully conscious, minimizing damage to essential brain functions. This method, though challenging, provides immense benefits, especially for tumors in sensitive areas. In Manipur, this approach was undertaken for the first time at Little Clinic, symbolizing a new era for advanced neurosurgery in the region.
Understanding Awake Craniotomy
Awake craniotomy involves precise coordination between the surgical team and the patient. Here’s how it typically unfolds:
- Pre-Surgery Preparation: Patients are educated about the procedure and prepped with minimal sedation.
- Real-Time Communication: During the operation, patients respond to simple instructions, aiding the surgical team.
- Monitoring Critical Functions: By observing responses, surgeons navigate around essential areas like the motor cortex, speech areas, and sensory zones.
Benefits and Risks
Benefits:
- Enhanced Precision: Real-time patient feedback helps avoid impairing key brain functions.
- Immediate Recovery Observation: Surgeons can assess outcomes, reducing post-surgical complications.
Risks:
- Infection Risks: Like all brain surgeries, there are risks, though advanced facilities like Little Clinic have extensive protocols to mitigate these.
Manipur’s Pioneering Surgical Team
Led by Dr. Thounaojam, the surgical team achieved remarkable success by navigating a high-risk procedure with outstanding skill. The patient, a 58-year-old individual, recovered well post-surgery, displaying improved cognitive functions—proving the team’s expertise and precision.
Impact on Healthcare in Manipur
This accomplishment reflects positively on Manipur’s healthcare capacity, bringing advanced surgical options closer to home for residents. It’s a significant stride for Little Clinic, showcasing it as a hub of medical innovation in the region.
FAQs
- What is an awake craniotomy?
- A type of brain surgery performed while the patient is awake to protect essential brain functions.
- Why was this procedure groundbreaking for Manipur?
- It was the state’s first such surgery, showing advanced surgical capabilities locally.
- Who led the surgery at Little Clinic?
- Dr. Chandrakumar Thounaojam and his team performed the procedure.
- What are the benefits of awake craniotomy?
- This method reduces risks to essential functions and allows for immediate monitoring during surgery.
- How did the patient recover post-surgery?
- The patient showed significant improvement in speech and cognitive functions, marking a successful outcome.
