Chandigarh: Doctors at Shalby Hospital, Mohali, successfully performed an abdominal wall reconstruction after removing a rare port-site adenocarcinoma (a cancerous tumor), thereby restoring both the structural integrity and functionality of the abdominal wall.
The 49-year-old female patient—who had undergone a laparoscopic cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal) for gallstones about two years prior—presented with persistent upper abdominal pain, a sensation of heaviness, and a gradually enlarging swelling at the site of a previous laparoscopic port.
The histopathology report from the original gallbladder surgery had indicated chronic inflammation of the gallbladder, with no evidence of cancer. However, further investigation revealed a suspicious lesion measuring approximately 3.6 × 3.5 cm in the upper abdomen, and a biopsy confirmed adenocarcinoma (cancer). Subsequently, the patient underwent a wide local excision to completely remove the tumor, resulting in a large defect in the abdominal wall.
Following this, Shalby’s plastic surgery team performed an abdominal wall reconstruction to restore stability, provide durable soft-tissue coverage, and achieve an acceptable cosmetic outcome while preserving abdominal function.
Dr. Samik Sharma, Senior Consultant – Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery at Shalby Hospital, Mohali, stated: "Wide excision of abdominal wall tumors often leaves behind complex defects that require meticulous reconstruction. The primary objectives are to restore abdominal wall strength, protect internal organs, prevent complications such as hernias, and achieve optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes." A post-surgery PET-CT scan showed no evidence of residual or spread of cancer, confirming successful surgical management. The patient's condition has improved significantly since the surgery, and she is recovering well.