AIIMS Patna Surgeon Sets World Record with Successful Removal of Heaviest Brain Tumor

Dr. Saraj Kumar Singh, an Associate Professor and accomplished Neurosurgeon at AIIMS Patna, has become a prominent figure in the medical world, thanks to his groundbreaking achievements in neurosurgery and innovative surgical techniques. From setting a world record for removing the heaviest brain tumor to introducing pioneering methods that are reshaping the field of neuroendoscopy, Dr. Singh's contributions are transforming patient care and surgical efficiency.

Dr. Saraj Kumar Singh made headlines worldwide for successfully removing a 2.280 kg brain tumor from a 50-year-old male patient on November 22, 2021. This extraordinary feat, recognized as a world record, was confirmed on May 18, 2024, after the successful surgery at AIIMS Patna. The massive tumor, measuring 9.44 x 9.44 x 5.51 inches, was extracted in a complex operation that lasted 3 hours and 16 minutes.

This world-record surgery not only showcases Dr. Singh's exceptional surgical skills but also highlights his ability to lead a team through high-stakes, intricate procedures. Such operations demand precision, teamwork, and the capability to manage life-threatening situations with unwavering focus. Dr. Singh’s leadership and expertise during this historic surgery demonstrated his profound understanding of the complexities of brain surgeries and his dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is medically possible.

Innovations in Neurosurgery: The SarajEndocath Technique

While his record-setting surgery brought Dr. Singh global recognition, his innovation in surgical techniques further solidified his reputation as a thought leader in the field. Dr. Singh developed the SarajEndocath, a novel device that combines the functions of suction and endoscopy, offering significant improvements in transnasal endoscopic pituitary surgery.

Endoscopic surgeries are favored for their minimally invasive nature, but they often present challenges such as obstructed visualization due to debris and blood on the endoscopic lens. The SarajEndocath effectively addresses these challenges, offering a cleaner and more efficient surgical process. In a comparative study conducted between January 2020 and January 2023, involving 75 patients with pituitary macroadenoma, Dr. Singh and his team demonstrated how this innovative device reduced:

* Operative time significantly, by simplifying the surgical process.

* The number of in-out movements of the endoscope, leading to smoother operations.

* The reliance on the assistant's skill, thus reducing the potential for human error and surgeon fatigue.

The traditional three-hand technique, which requires frequent assistance and lens cleaning, was transformed into a more streamlined two-hand technique with the SarajEndocath. This not only improved the ergonomics of the surgery but also minimized instrument clustering, enhancing the overall safety and success of the procedure.

A Pioneer in Neurosurgery

Born on February 25, 1985, Dr. Saraj Kumar Singh has quickly risen to prominence through his dedication, skill, and innovative mindset. His contributions extend beyond the operating room, as he continually seeks to improve patient outcomes through technological advancements and research.

As an Associate Professor and practicing neurosurgeon at AIIMS Patna, Dr. Singh has become a source of inspiration for his peers and students. His work is not only recognized for its clinical significance but also for the way it has redefined complex brain surgeries and neuroendoscopic techniques. His innovative approach, especially with the SarajEndocath, is seen as a potential game-changer in the field, reducing surgical risks and increasing precision.

Dr. Saraj Kumar Singh’s contributions to neurosurgery—whether through his record-breaking surgery or his innovative SarajEndocath technique—are setting new standards for surgical excellence. His work combines cutting-edge technology with practical surgical solutions, ensuring safer, more efficient outcomes for patients. As he continues to lead groundbreaking efforts at AIIMS Patna, Dr. Singh's dedication to advancing the field of neurosurgery reaffirms his status as a visionary in modern medicine.