HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC) in Nashik has successfully treated a 78-year-old patient diagnosed with two separate primary cancers at the same time—oral cavity cancer and sigmoid colon cancer—through a multidisciplinary treatment approach.
The patient, Balkrushna Tukaram Nigade from Pune, was diagnosed with cancer affecting the left buccal mucosa (gum region) and sigmoid colon, a type of colorectal cancer. According to the hospital, the case required coordinated treatment planning involving specialists from multiple disciplines.
Following detailed investigations, including biopsy, PET-CT scans, imaging studies and colonoscopy, the patient’s case was reviewed by the hospital’s Multidisciplinary Tumour Board. The panel included experts in surgical, medical and radiation oncology, along with radiology, pathology, nuclear medicine, anaesthesiology and critical care.
Based on the treatment plan, the patient first underwent robotic surgery for colon cancer. After a week’s recovery, he underwent surgery for oral cancer. He remained under observation for another week before being discharged in stable condition.
Prof. Dr. Raj Nagarkar, Chief of Surgical Oncology and Robotic Services and Managing Director of KIMS Manavata Hospitals, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre and Six Sigma, said treating two primary cancers simultaneously requires careful planning, as each cancer demands a different treatment strategy. He added that a multidisciplinary approach helped develop a personalised treatment plan while focusing on the patient’s quality of life.
The hospital said the patient and his family also received counselling and continuous support throughout the treatment process. It added that advances in diagnostics, multidisciplinary care and timely treatment have improved the management of complex cancer cases.