HCG Manavata Cancer Centre Performs Rare Surgery to Remove Cancer From Major Abdominal Vein, Patient Walks in Three Days

HCG Manavata Cancer Centre Successfully Performs Rare and Complex IVC Sarcoma Surgery

Nashik, June 23, 2026 — In a rare and highly challenging surgical procedure, specialists at HCG Manavata Cancer Centre (HCGMCC), Nashik, successfully removed a large cancerous tumour arising from the Inferior Vena Cava (IVC), one of the body's most critical blood vessels. The complex surgery saved the life of a 52-year-old woman, who was able to walk within three days of the operation and was discharged on the fifth post-operative day.

The patient, a Nashik-based homemaker, initially experienced persistent abdominal pain, which she believed was related to dietary changes. As the discomfort gradually spread to her legs, she sought medical evaluation.

An ultrasound examination revealed a large mass measuring approximately 9 cm in the upper abdomen. A subsequent CT scan raised concerns of a possible malignancy involving the Inferior Vena Cava, the major vein responsible for carrying blood from the lower half of the body back to the heart.

Rare Cancer Confirmed After Advanced Diagnostic Evaluation

Seeking further treatment at HCG Manavata Cancer Centre, the patient underwent a comprehensive PET-CT scan and biopsy. The investigations confirmed a rare soft tissue sarcoma originating from the wall of the Inferior Vena Cava.

Further assessment showed that the tumour was closely associated with major abdominal blood vessels, making surgical removal exceptionally complex and high risk.

Complex Vascular Reconstruction Restored Blood Flow

"During the operation, surgeons successfully removed the tumour along with an approximately 12 cm segment of the affected IVC. The procedure also involved complex vascular reconstruction to restore normal blood flow. Despite the extensive nature of the surgery, the patient's recovery was remarkable. She was able to walk comfortably within days and was discharged home on the fifth post-operative day. In over 15 years of practice, this is only the second such rare surgery that we have performed," said Prof Dr Raj Nagarkar, Chief of Surgical Oncology & Robotic Services and Managing Director, KIMS Manavata Hospitals, HCG Manavata Cancer Centre and Six Sigma, Nashik.

Tumours originating from the Inferior Vena Cava are among the rarest forms of sarcoma and present significant surgical challenges due to their involvement with one of the body's largest and most important blood vessels.

According to the treating team, complete removal of the tumour offers the best opportunity for long-term survival. However, such procedures require meticulous surgical planning, multidisciplinary coordination and advanced vascular reconstruction techniques.

Patient's Recovery Highlights Advances in Cancer Surgery

"What makes stories like these truly special is not just the complexity of the surgery but the courage shown by patients and their families. This was a high risk procedure with significant technical challenges, but their faith in our team never wavered. Seeing her walk out of the hospital smiling just five days later reminds us why pushing the boundaries of cancer care is so important. Such surgeries are possible only with the right expertise, infrastructure, teamwork and experience," concluded Dr Nagarkar.

The successful procedure underscores the growing capabilities of advanced oncology centres in India to perform highly specialised cancer surgeries involving complex vascular reconstruction, offering patients with rare cancers improved treatment outcomes and recovery prospects.