KOCHI: When 86-year-old Padmakshy Amma, a native of Thrichattukulam, near Aroor, reported in a critical state with extensive bleeding within the brain following the rupture of an abnormal blood vessel (aneurysm) no one expected that she would survive. Though the only treatment option was a very major surgery with a very high risk due to age, cardiac problem and respiratory problem, the patient’s relatives took that very bold decision.
The surgery took eight hours and was successfully completed. She gradually made a steady recovery and after one month she has fully recovered. The post surgery scan shows she is healthy. Padmakshy Amma’s miraculous recovery is a cherished moment for VPS Lakeshore as it is the oldest reported case of successful Intracranial aneurysm clipping surgery worldwide. The surgery was led by Dr Arun Oommen, neurosurgeon at the hospital.
“Nowhere has such a case been reported. Previous similar reported case is from a Japanese Journal of Neurosurgery where the age was 84 years. This success was possible only due to the hard work and team effort of all the doctors,” said Dr Arun Oommen.
The other doctors in the team included Dr Prithwi Varghese ( Neurosurgeon), Dr Muralikrishnan (Neurologist), Dr Mohan Mathew (director of anaesthesia and critical care), Dr John, Dr Mathai Samuel, Dr Jaya, Dr Nita, Dr Mallie, Dr Bhim Shankar (cardiologist and electrophysiologist) and Dr Mohammed Shafiq (pulmonologist).
“Aneurysm rupture is a very serious illness with a very high mortality rate. A ruptured aneurysm can lead to bleeding and severe brain damage leading to death. Aneurysms are a result of a weakened blood vessel wall, and can be a result of a hereditary condition or an acquired disease. Aneurysms can also be a nidus for clot formation (thrombosis) and embolization. Padmakshy Amma had many associated problems also,”said Dr Arun Oommen.
