Beating the Odds: A Rare Heart Tumor Surgery by Dr. Srinath and Dr. Senthilkumar

In a remarkable display of surgical expertise and teamwork, Dr. Srinath Vijayasekharan and Dr. Senthilkumar, senior cardiothoracic surgeons at Rela Hospital, successfully performed a rare Left Atrial (LA) Myxoma removal—saving the life of a 47-year-old men whose condition had silently threatened her heart.

The patient from Tamil Nadu, had been experiencing unexplained breathlessness, fatigue, and occasional fainting spells for several months. Local clinics suspected a heart problem, but it wasn’t until he reached our Hospital that the rare diagnosis was made.

Advanced echocardiography and cardiac MRI revealed a large, mobile myxoma tumor occupying the left atrium—posing a serious risk of sudden cardiac arrest or stroke. Left atrial myxomas are rare, benign tumors of the heart, but due to their location, they can obstruct blood flow and become fatal if not promptly treated.

Recognizing the urgency, Dr. Srinath and Dr. Senthilkumar meticulously planned and executed the high-risk open-heart surgery. With precision, they removed the tumor through a minimally invasive median sternotomy, ensuring the mitral valve and other cardiac structures remained intact.

The surgery was a success, and the patient made a smooth recovery, discharged within a week. Today, he is back with her family and living a symptom-free life.

“This case reminds us that even benign tumors can turn deadly if overlooked. Timely diagnosis and surgical precision make all the difference,” said Dr. Srinath Vijayasekharan.

“We’re proud to bring such complex cardiac care within reach of patients from rural areas as well,” added Dr. Senthilkumar.

This rare cardiac intervention stands as another milestone in the team's commitment to advanced heart care, reinforcing Rela Hospital's reputation as a leader in cardiothoracic excellence.

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