CARE Hospitals Performs High-Risk Keyhole Surgery on Rare Duodenal Cancer Patient

Doctors at CARE Hospitals, Malakpet have successfully performed a laparoscopic-assisted Whipple’s procedure on a 65-year-old woman from Elurudiagnosed with duodenal cancer, a rare gastrointestinal malignancy accounting for less than 1 per cent of digestive tract cancers. The patient and her family had gone through severe emotional distress after multiple hospitals declined to perform surgery, citing the complexity and high risk involved, leaving them with very limited options and fading hope.

Despite her poor health condition, the patient approached CARE Hospitals seeking help. After a detailed evaluation and careful preparation, the Surgical Gastro team lead by Dr Bhupathi Rajendra Prasad, Senior Surgical Gastroenterologist and Robotic Surgeon, decided to take up the challenge and performed a Laparoscopic-assisted Whipple’s surgery, one of the most complex abdominal cancer surgeries. Such high-risk cancer surgery done through keyhole techniques is rare, and the patient’s recovery within five days is considered exceptional.

The surgery was particularly challenging due to low blood levels, poor nutrition, a large tumour blocking food passage, a soft pancreas, and disease involvement near the intestine. However, with meticulous planning and teamwork, the surgery was completed successfully.

Following the operation, the patient recovered smoothly without any complications. From a stage where she struggled to eat and move comfortably, she is now pain-free, able to walk on her own, eat normally. She was discharged on the fifth postoperative day, a notable outcome given the complexity of the surgery. The patient and her family expressed immense happiness and relief, calling it a second chance at life after weeks of uncertainty and fear.

Speaking about the case, Dr. Bhupathi Rajendra Prasad, Senior Surgical Gastroenterologist and Robotic Surgeon at CARE Hospitals, Malakpet, said, “Cancer of the duodenum is rare, and Whipple’s surgery itself is highly complex. When many centres consider it too risky, it becomes emotionally devastating for patients. We believed that with the right preparation and experience, we could offer her a safe surgical option. Seeing her recover so well is extremely satisfying.”

Mr. Praveen Kumar Edla, Chief Operating Officer, CARE Hospitals, Malakpet, said, “Healthcare is not only about technology, but also about courage, compassion, and responsibility. Taking up such complex cases reflects our commitment to stand by patients when they need us the most. The patient’s recovery and happiness reaffirm our purpose.”

The patient will continue to receive regular follow-up and further cancer care as advised, ensuring long-term health and quality of life.

CARE Hospitals, Malakpet continues to deliver advanced cancer treatment and minimally invasive surgeries, offering hope even in the most complex and high-risk medical cases.

About CARE Hospitals:

CARE Hospitals is a part of Quality Care India Ltd. (QCIL), backed by Blackstone, with the vision to become the largest hospital chain in India through continuous investments in Talent, Technology, and Infrastructure. Along with CARE Hospitals, QCIL also operates two more leading healthcare chains — Evercare Bangladesh and KIMSHEALTH Kerala.

CARE Hospitals, one of India's leading healthcare providers, is committed to delivering world-class medical services across a range of specialties. With a strong focus on patient-centric care, innovation, and community health initiatives, CARE Hospitals continues to play a pivotal role in advancing healthcare standards in India. CARE Hospitals Group operates 17 healthcare facilities serving 7 cities across 6 states in India. The network has its presence in Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar, Visakhapatnam, Raipur, Nagpur, Indore & Aurangabad. A regional leader in South and Central India and counted among the top 5 pan-Indian hospital chains, CARE Hospitals delivers comprehensive care in over 33 clinical specialties, with over 3000+ beds.