In the capital of Ukraine, doctors performed a unique laparoscopic surgery to remove a colon tumor from a woman in late pregnancy. The lives of both mother and child are not at risk.

This was reported by the National Cancer Institute.

A 35-year-old mother of five from Rivne region sought medical help at the 19th week of her pregnancy.

"During a routine ultrasound, she was diagnosed with a malignant tumor – stage III adenocarcinoma of the transverse colon, accompanied by grade II anemia and partial bowel obstruction," the institute noted.

The treatment strategy was determined at a multidisciplinary council. The main goal was to save the woman's life and preserve her pregnancy.

"Experience in performing radical surgeries for colorectal cancer at such a late stage of pregnancy in Ukraine is limited, and laparoscopic access is virtually non-existent."

Surgeons had to consider many factors: the biological characteristics of the tumor, physiological changes associated with pregnancy, and the presence of an enlarged uterus with a live fetus, which significantly restricted the ability to perform specific laparoscopic maneuvers," said Vitaliy Zvirych, head of the oncology and proctology department.

The laparoscopic method was chosen to minimize trauma and protect the child. This operation significantly reduced postoperative pain and nearly eliminated the need for pain relief medications.

"It was a real challenge – both medically and humanely. We realized that we were responsible for two lives," the surgeon added.

The woman is recovering quickly after surgery; she feels well, is active, and smiling. The condition of the fetus, according to specialists, is stable. On the third day after the operation, her husband took her home.

After receiving the final histological report, the multidisciplinary team of the institute will determine the further chemotherapy strategy for the patient.