Polish surgeons remove 35-pound tumor initially misdiagnosed

Polish medical professionals have successfully extracted a massive 16-kilogram (35-pound) tumor from a patient whose symptoms were originally misattributed to lifestyle factors. The 56-year-old man had reported persistent abdominal pain and increasing discomfort for approximately one year before undergoing the definitive surgical procedure at University Clinical Hospital No. 1 in Lublin, southeastern Poland.

Diagnostic Discovery and Surgical Complexity

Medical imaging ultimately revealed the extraordinary dimensions of the abdominal mass, which measured 35 centimeters (14 inches) and occupied space near critical organs including the kidneys, ureters, a substantial portion of the pancreas, and major blood vessels. The tumor's extensive development and strategic positioning necessitated a comprehensive surgical approach to ensure complete removal while managing anatomical risks.

Surgical Procedure and Concomitant Resections

The complex operation, performed on Thursday, required approximately two and a half hours to complete. In addition to the primary tumor extraction, the surgical team performed concomitant resections of the patient's left kidney and a segment of his colon to achieve complete tumor clearance and address involved adjacent structures. The multifaceted procedure addressed both the massive neoplasm and its anatomical relationships with surrounding organs.

Clinical Context and Recovery

This remarkable medical case highlights the diagnostic challenges that can arise when symptoms initially present as nonspecific complaints. The successful intervention at the Polish medical facility demonstrates advanced surgical capabilities in managing exceptionally large tumors requiring complex multi-organ resections, with the patient now under postoperative care and monitoring.