Watch: Andhra Surgeons Perform Brain Surgery While Patient Watches Jr NTR Film

Awake craniotomy, initially developed for treating epilepsy, is now frequently used for tumor resection. This method allows neurosurgeons to maximize tumor removal while preserving neurological function, as the patient can provide immediate feedback.

Patient watches movie while doctors perform brain surgery
by Drishya Madhur - September 18, 2024, 5:18 pm

In a remarkable medical achievement, doctors at the Government General Hospital (GGH) in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh, performed a complex brain surgery known as an awake craniotomy while the patient watched a film starring Jr NTR. This technique involves keeping the patient conscious during the procedure.

Patient and Procedure

The 55-year-old patient, A. Ananthalakshmi, underwent surgery for a brain tumor located on the left side of her brain. She had been experiencing symptoms such as limb numbness and persistent headaches. The tumor measured 3.3 x 2.7 cm. Opting for the government hospital due to the high costs associated with private healthcare, Ananthalakshmi was treated with an innovative approach to maintain her calm and focus during the operation.

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Film as a Distraction

To ease Ananthalakshmi’s anxiety, the medical team played scenes from Jr NTR’s film Adhurs, her favorite movie, throughout the procedure. The surgery, which lasted two and a half hours, was successful, and the doctors expect her to be discharged within five days.

Awake Craniotomy Technique

Awake craniotomy, initially developed for treating epilepsy, is now frequently used for tumor resection. This method allows neurosurgeons to maximize tumor removal while preserving neurological function, as the patient can provide immediate feedback.

Similar Surgeries

A week prior, a similar procedure was conducted at Kalyan Singh Cancer Institute in Uttar Pradesh, where a 56-year-old patient remained awake and engaged with his mobile phone to minimize nerve damage. Earlier in January, a five-year-old girl underwent awake surgery at AIIMS Delhi to remove a dangerous brain tumor, during which she interacted with doctors and even recognized a picture of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.