Aster RV Hospital’s surgical oncology teamsuccessfully treated a rare and challenging case of low rectal carcinoma in a patient from Dubai of Indian origin, achieving sphincter preservation and avoiding the need for a permanent colostomy.
The patient had initially been advised by other medical centres to undergo total removal of the anal sphincter, which would have resulted in lifelong colostomy. Upon evaluation at Aster RV’s multidisciplinary clinic, a comprehensive diagnostic protocol was undertaken, including MRI, PET-CT, biopsy, and tumour genomic profiling (KRAS, NRAS, BRAF). Following a detailed case review with the radiation and medical oncology teams, the decision was made to pursue neoadjuvant chemoradiation, with the shared involvement of the patient and family in treatment planning.
Dr. Jagannath Dixit, Senior Consultant – Surgical Oncology, Aster RV Hospital, said “Sphincter preservation in very low rectal cancers is one of the most complex goals in surgical oncology, as it directly impacts a patient’s quality of life. Through meticulous planning, advanced technology, and a multidisciplinary approach, we were able to achieve both oncological safety and functional preservation. This case reflects our philosophy of combining patient-centric decision-making with cutting-edge surgical techniques.”
The patient completed five weeks of chemoradiation, followed by nine weeks of metronomic chemotherapy. Post-treatment scans revealed significant tumour response, enabling the surgical team to proceed with a robotic-assisted ultra-low anterior resection with hand-sewn coloanal anastomosis and temporary ileostomy. Postoperative recovery was rapid and uneventful, with preserved continence, and functions.
This case underscores the Aster RV’s expertise in integrating oncology, radiology, pathology, and robotic surgery to deliver personalised and high-quality cancer care to patients in India and from abroad.