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Fibroid in the form of a baby found in Dubai Filipina’s womb

Doctors remove 3kg mass from 45kg woman in highly intricate surgery



Jessica Delis Santos, right, with Dr. Caroline Alphine Jenitha at Aster Hospital, Mankhool.
Image Credit: Supplied

Dubai: In a bizarre medical case at a private hospital in Dubai, doctors recently found a fibroid shaped like a human baby in the womb of a Filipina patient.

The uterine fibroid, termed as myoma, measured 22cm x 10cm and weighed 3kg, almost as if the woman was eight months pregnant.

The patient, Jessica Delis Santos, 33, underwent an open myomectomy under the supervision of Dr. Caroline Alphine Jenitha, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Specialist at Aster Hospital, Mankhool.

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Myomectomy is a form of surgery that removes uterine fibroids by leaving the uterus intact. Usually non-cancerous growths of tissue, the myomas, when removed, keep the chances of a pateient to get pregnant intact.

Santos had a history of myomectomy in 2011 after a 16cm fibroid was removed in her hometown. However, she did not feel the need to see a doctor again until recently when she began to experience severe stomach pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, abdominal hardening and weight loss. The doctor at a clinic she visited recommended an ultrasound, revealing the necessity for a surgery. She was subsequently referred to Dr. Jenitha at Aster Hospital Mankhool.

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It was then that Dr. Jenitha discovered a 3kgmyoma measuring 22cm x 10cm, arising from the posterior wall of Santos’ uterus. It extended up to below the rib cage andwas larger than the average size, resembling an eight-month pregnant abdomen.

A surgery was immediately scheduled. Performed under General Anesthesia, it involved intricate procedures on the patient, who weighed just 45kg..

“The patient presented a unique and very rare challenge due to the size and extensive bowel adhesions,” said Dr. Jenitha. “The surgery required careful planning and execution, and I am pleased with the successful outcome. This emphasises the importance of regular check-ups and timely intervention in managing gynaecological conditions.”

Santos is very grateful, “I am thankful to Dr. Jenitha and the entire team at the hospital. The stomach pain and discomfort I faced before the surgery were overwhelming, and the relief I feel now is beyond words. I appreciate the professionalism and compassion shown by everyone involved in my treatment.”

What are myomas? 

Myomas are uterine fibroids are common growths in the uterus which are usuallu not cancerous. They can vary in size and number. A very large fibroid, which can make a woman seem pregnant, can distort the uterus and in some cases fill the pelvis and stomach area.

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What are the symptoms?

Pain in the stomach

Heavy, more frequent menstrual bleeding

Frequent urination or trouble urinating.

Constipation

Growing abdomen

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