Thyroid Cancer Surgery for a young Child Using a Novel Technique at Zulekha Yenepoya Institute of Oncology, Yenepoya Medical College Hospital

May 10, 2025

In a remarkable display of resilience, a 7-year-old child has successfully undergone a supramajor surgery for an advanced cancer of the thyroid gland at Zulekha Yenepoya Institute of Oncology attached to Yenepoya Medical College Hospital. The child was diagnosed with papillary carcinoma of throid gland which had spread to both side and central part of neck, just a few weeks ago and has since undergone a life-saving surgery.

The child's parents noticed a swelling in her neck, which prompted them to seek medical attention. After a series of tests, the diagnosis was confirmed, and the medical team at hospital sprang into action. After discussion in the Tumour Board, the surgical oncology team, led by Dr Jalaluddin Akbar involving Dr H T Amar Rao, and Dr Noor Mohammed, along with Dr Preethi (Anaesthetist) performed a major surgery, removing the thyroid gland and the affected lymph nodes from both sides and central part of the neck. Since the cancer had spread to both sides of the neck and the central part of the neck in a child, it was a very high risk and complicated surgery which took around 9 hours. For the first time in Mangalore, the team utilized novel technique utilizing Indocyanine Green to identify and preserve the parathyroid glands, which makes the surgery completely safe and ensures the patient's long-term health and minimizes potential complications. The child was cared by the pediatricians Dr Anitha Prabhu and Dr Ramnath Mahale during this period.

The surgery, which took place one week ago, was a success, and the child is recovering well.

This case highlights the importance of early detection and prompt treatment in managing thyroid cancer, even in young children.

Thyroid cancer is very rare in children, but awareness and prompt medical consultation at the earliest symptoms can help identify potential issues early on. The medical community and parents must work together to promote awareness about thyroid health and the importance of seeking medical attention if any unusual symptoms are noticed.

The young patient's family is grateful for the exceptional care provided by the medical team at Zulekha Yenepoya Institute of Oncology. With continued medical care and support, the child is expected to lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Her courageous battle against thyroid cancer serves as an inspiration to many, and her story underscores the importance of hope, resilience, and quality medical care.