In a rare medical case, doctors recently discovered an unusually large uterine fibroid, resembling the size and shape of a seven-month-old human baby, in the womb of 32-year-old Sudanese patient, Dalia Elgamil. The fibroid, known as a myoma, measured 20 cm by 11 cm and weighed approximately 1.8kg. The size of the fibroid, comparable to that of a fetus at seven months of gestation, presented a significant challenge for minimally invasive laparoscopic surgical removal.
Early in 2023, Dalia went for a healing massage, and the therapist noticed something unusual about her belly. Concerned by this, she consulted her gynaecologist and underwent ultrasounds which confirmed the presence of uterine fibroids, despite no symptoms being present initially. Despite being advised that the fibroids would require open surgery due to the large size, Dalia did not seek further medical advice initially. However, as she started experiencing severe symptoms and had concerns about conceiving after her upcoming marriage, she visited the doctor again.
Multiple doctors across the UAE and specialists in Saudi Arabia confirmed open surgery as the only option for Dalia’s case. She was then referred to Professor Dr Mohamed Zayed and Dr Amal Hassan Abdelaziz at Thumbay University Hospital. The experts decided to perform minimally invasive keyhole laparoscopic surgery to remove the fibroids. The surgical procedure, known as myomectomy, was successful in removing all the fibroids, with minimal scarring and a quicker recovery time compared to open surgery.
Dr Amal highlighted the critical importance of women’s healthcare and the need for specialized attention to women’s unique health needs. Routine screenings, preventive care, and early detection are crucial in ensuring that women receive the necessary care. Dalia expressed gratitude towards the medical team for the successful surgery and the positive change in her appearance post-surgery. She emphasized the importance of sharing her experience to give hope to others facing similar challenges with fibroids.
Post-surgery, Dalia noticed a significant improvement in her appearance, with the removal of the large fibroid. She expressed gratitude towards the medical team for their support during her journey. Dr Amal stressed the importance of providing specialized care to women and highlighted the potential long-term health consequences of neglecting women’s healthcare needs. Minimally invasive surgeries can effectively manage cases like Dalia’s, ensuring a quicker recovery and minimal scarring compared to traditional open surgeries.
