Mumbai, Oct 07: Doctors at Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital have successfully treated a 44-year-old man with recurrent pancreatic cancer using Irreversible Electroporation NanoKnife, offering a minimally invasive treatment option after repeat surgery was considered unsafe due to the tumour’s proximity to two major blood vessels.
The patient, Sourav Dutta, resident of Mumbai, had undergone a Whipple surgery for pancreatic cancer approximately two-and-a-half years ago at Nanavati Max Hospital. During follow-up, scans revealed that the cancer had returned around the two major blood vessels supplying several vital abdominal organs. While there was no evidence of distant spread, the location of the recurrent tumour made another surgery highly challenging and unsafe and hence he was advised to start chemotherapy.
Despite undergoing chemotherapy, the tumour remained closely associated with these critical blood vessels. Dutta’s health condition continued to deteriorate and then he decided to consult Dr Ganesh Nagarajan, Vice Chairman – HPB & GI Surgery and Lead – Growth & Strategy, Oncology, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital. Post detailed evaluation he was considered suitable for IRE NanoKnife treatment.
Speaking on the technology, Dr. Ganesh Nagarajan, said,
“IRE NanoKnife is an advanced, minimally invasive, non-thermal technology that uses precisely delivered electrical pulses to create microscopic pores in cancer cells, leading to their destruction. Unlike conventional thermal ablation techniques that use heat or cold and may risk damage to surrounding structures, IRE works without significant thermal injury, making it particularly useful for tumours located close to critical blood vessels and other vital structures. It offers a targeted approach to tumour treatment while helping preserve the surrounding anatomy.”
The entire procedure was performed without open surgery. Dutta recovered well and was discharged within two days.
Speaking on the case, Dr Aniruddha Kulkarni, Principal Director – Interventional Radiology, Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital, said,
“Recurrent pancreatic cancer can be particularly challenging to manage, as the disease may return in a location involving critical structures and after the patient has already undergone major treatment. These cases require careful evaluation because the treatment options can become more limited with recurrence. Alongside appropriate medical and surgical management, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, regular follow-up and timely imaging are important in helping patients stay engaged with their long-term cancer care.”
The introduction of IRE NanoKnife further strengthens Nanavati Max Super Speciality Hospital’s multidisciplinary cancer-care programme, bringing together expertise in Interventional Radiology, HPB & GI Surgery and Oncology for the evaluation and management of complex cancers.
