From Our Correspondent
TURA: Believed to be one of the longest operations carried out in Garo Hills to remove one of the largest tumours from a patient, doctors from Tura Civil Hospital successfully operated upon a 41-year-old man to remove a benign growth.
Angga Ch Marak of Gimegre old model village under Rajabala assembly constituency had been living a pitiable life ever since the abnormal growth first cropped up 14 years ago. The tumor weighted a whooping 5 kgs and 200 grams when it was operated upon. Embarrassed over the strange growth he tried to conceal it by wearing a cloth over his upper torso even during the grueling summer months. Failing to get any financial help from any politician and government officials, villagers of Gimegre and family members of Angga Ch Marak approached a businessman-cum -politician from Rajabala, Ashahel D Shira, who promptly brought him to Tura civil hospital for surgery after a medical check up with Dr A K Paul Chowdhury who forwarded him to the specialist surgery department.
Doctors led by ENT specialist Inbert C Marak assessed his condition and decided to operate on the tumor at the earliest.
“It took us 11 hours to complete the operation which began at 10am and was completed only by 9:30 pm. It was one of the longest surgery we have conducted here,” revealed Dr Inbert C Marak. He was assisted by Dr. (Ms) Sathina A Sangma, Dr. Silang Sangma and Dr Kevin G Momin.
“We were worried during the surgery that the tumor may have connected to the blood vessels of the neck which could lead to excessive bleeding and complications. Thankfully everything passed off successfully,” said Dr I C Marak and his team.
“I approached so many people who promised me help but it was not forthcoming. I am grateful to Mr Shira for his generosity,” a cheerful Agga said.
The hospital has since forwarded the tumor for further pathological investigation to New Delhi. “The outcome of this operation will lead to immense scope in the field of medical knowledge and it will also show that in spite of several restraints doctors have been able to successfully conduct operations. It is a good sign for the people of Garo Hills,” said guardian Ashahel D Shira.