Early Times Report
JAMMU, Apr 21: In a significant medical achievement, the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Jammu has successfully performed a complex surgical procedure-Proximal Splenorenal Shunt (PSRS) on a 31-year-old woman diagnosed with Extrahepatic Portal Vein Obstruction (EHPVO), a condition that can lead to life-threatening complications. The procedure is believed to be among the first of its kind reported in the Jammu region.
The patient had a prolonged history of recurrent hematemesis (vomiting of blood) since childhood due to portal vein obstruction leading to portal hypertension. She also suffered from symptomatic hypersplenism, marked by an enlarged spleen and reduced blood cell counts, resulting in recurrent anaemia, infections, skin rashes, and easy bruising.
Prior to surgery, the patient was managed outside with multiple sessions of endoscopic variceal ligation and glue injection to control bleeding from esophageal varices. However, despite these interventions, her symptoms persisted, necessitating a definitive surgical solution.
The procedure was performed by Dr. Sahil Sandal, Assistant Professor and Officiating Head and Dr. Akash Salaria, Senior Resident, Department of Surgical Gastroenterology at AIIMS Jammu. Anaesthesia support was provided by Dr. Kanika Gupta, Assistant Professor and team.
The Proximal Splenorenal Shunt (PSRS) is a specialized surgery that redirects blood flow from the spleen to the left renal vein following splenectomy, thereby reducing pressure in the portal venous system and preventing further episodes of gastrointestinal bleeding, along with symptoms related to hypersplenism.
The postoperative course was uneventful. Postoperative Doppler ultrasound confirmed a patent shunt, and the patient was discharged on the 9th postoperative day.
"This case highlights the importance of timely surgical intervention in patients with EHPVO who do not respond adequately to endoscopic management," said Dr. Sandal. "PSRS remains a highly effective and durable solution, especially in young patients. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial to prevent severe complications and improve quality of life."
The Executive Director and CEO of AIIMS Jammu, Prof. (Dr.) D. N. Sharma, appreciated the efforts of the surgical team for this achievement, stating that such advanced procedures reflect the institute's commitment to delivering cutting-edge healthcare services. The successful outcome underscores AIIMS Jammu's growing capabilities in managing complex gastrointestinal and hepatopancreatobiliary cases, reaffirming its role as a leading tertiary care centre in the region.
This achievement not only brings hope to patients suffering from similar conditions but also marks a significant advancement in gastrointestinal and hepatopancreatobiliary surgical care in the region. |
