Timely surgery saves Brit who fell ill on UAE visit

Ras Al Khaimah - Suffering from a sudden excruciating pain and vomiting, Stuart was rushed to the RAK Hospital emergency.

When British tourist Warren Stewart began exploring the ethereal beauty of Ras Al Khaimah, he had no idea he would end up at RAK Hospital in a life and death situation.
Suffering from a sudden excruciating pain and vomiting, Stuart was rushed to the RAK Hospital emergency where a quick clinical diagnosis revealed a ruptured bowel and a large tumour that had completely blocked his colon.
This necessitated an emergency laparoscopic surgery with Hartmann's procedure in order to save his life. "We found a perforation in his bowel- that is, the colon had a hole in it," said Senior Specialist, Minimal Access Surgery, Dr Anup Panigrahi, who did the surgery.
"The issue had to be addressed urgently since Stuart could not even fly back to the UK for treatment in this condition."
Stuart was operated upon immediately and in a matter of four hours, Dr Panigrahi removed the tumour by a process known as laparoscopic sigmoidectomy. In the next 24 hours, Stuart was up on his feet and within 72 hours he was back in his hotel room on his way to recovery.
Laparoscopic Hartmann's procedure is far more convenient in terms of quick recovery time, less post-operative discomfort and risks involved as compared to open surgery.
Periodic screening helps
Typically, the cancer manifests itself through a change in bowel habits, rectal bleeding, weakness or fatigue, vomiting, abdominal pain and unexplained weight loss.
However, according to Dr. Panigrahi, in around 40 per cent of the people, the cancer is asymptomatic as happened in Stuart's case.
"This is why we doctors reinforce the need for periodic screening, also called colonoscopy," added Dr Panigrahi.
He suggested a diet high on fibre and low on red or processed meat. "Eating insufficient fibre can lead to constipation, which means cancer causing agents are in contact with the bowel lining for longer and increase risk."
He also advised people to include more vegetables, fruits, cereals and bread in the diet to avoid colon cancer.
The patient Warren Stewart appreciated the quick medical assistance and the care he received at the hospital.
"I probably wouldn't be alive if it hadn't been for the hospital. Everything from entering the building to the time I left the hospital was absolutely fantastic and I received first-class care."
asmaalizain@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE
• Ras Al Khaimah