Patient scrolls on phone while doctors remove brain tumor using Awake Craniotomy: Here’s how it happened

Lucknow: Doctors at Kalyan Singh Cancer Institute in Chak Ganjaria successfully removed a brain tumour from a patient using the Awake Craniotomy technique. This innovative approach allowed the patient to remain fully awake and engaged with his mobile phone throughout the surgery, helping to reduce the risk of nerve damage, as reported by TOI.

Harishchandra Prajapati, a 56-year-old resident of Lucknow, had been enduring intense headaches and weakness in his left hand and leg. After being diagnosed with a brain tumour at a private hospital and warned about the potential risk of paralysis, his family sought alternative treatment at Kalyan Singh Cancer Institute.

During the procedure, Prajapati was administered only local anaesthesia, enabling him to stay conscious and participate in tasks such as using his phone, holding a pen, and moving his legs. This interaction was crucial for the medical team, as it allowed them to monitor his brain activity and ensure safe removal of the tumour without compromising the nerves that control movement in his hand and leg.


Dr. Vijendra Kumar, head of the neurosurgery department, explained to TOI, “We opted for the Awake Craniotomy technique to minimise the risk of nerve damage.”

Dr. Devashish Shukla, medical superintendent at the institute, added that brain mapping was performed using a nerve monitoring machine, helping the team navigate the delicate procedure.

The surgery was carried out by a team led by Dr. Vijendra Kumar, along with Dr. Amit Upadhyay, Dr. Vipin Sahu, and resident Dr. Anjani Singh. The anaesthesia department, led by Dr. Asim Rashid, with support from Dr. Ruchi Saxena and senior resident Dr. Shruti, also played a key role in the success of the operation.

Inputs from TOI