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Salman SharifBriton whose throat growth was removed by a thin, powerful stream of water
Country:
 Great Britain |
Content:
- A Novel Surgical Technique: Waterjet Surgery
- Endoscopic Examination and Biopsy
- Surgical Options
- Waterjet Surgery: A Novel Approach
- Surgical Procedure
- Post-Operative Recovery
- The "Erbejet" Waterjet Dissector
- Benefits of Waterjet Surgery
- Financial Considerations
A Novel Surgical Technique: Waterjet Surgery
In 2014, Salman Sharif underwent a surgery to remove a benign cyst from his throat that had reoccurred after the removal of a cyst from his ear. This time, the cyst was located in his thyroid and was causing discomfort.
Endoscopic Examination and Biopsy
An endoscopy revealed the presence of a thyroid nodule. A biopsy confirmed that the growth was benign and fluid-filled. While not cancerous, the cyst caused respiratory and swallowing difficulties.
Surgical Options
Surgeon Michael Dilks presented Sharif with two options: regular needle drainage to extract fluid and relieve symptoms or surgical removal of the growth and the right half of his thyroid. However, the proximity of the thyroid to the vocal cord nerve raised concerns about damage during surgery.
Waterjet Surgery: A Novel Approach
Dr. Dilks proposed an alternative method using the "Erbejet" waterjet dissector. This innovative device utilized a thin stream of water to cut the growth more precisely and with less risk.
Surgical Procedure
Sharif agreed to the surgery on August 12, 2014. The waterjet effectively removed the growth. Upon waking, he was relieved to find his voice intact. The incision was closed with metal clips, which were removed a few days later.
Post-Operative Recovery
Sharif recovered quickly. Within two days, he was able to eat normally. He experienced minimal pain and inconvenience, and soon returned to work. He expressed his gratitude for the effective removal of the growth.
The "Erbejet" Waterjet Dissector
Developed in Germany, the "Erbejet" waterjet dissector has been widely utilized in surgeries for liver, kidney, and brain cancer. The thin water stream (twice the thickness of a human hair) penetrates tissues to reach tumors. The pressure is calibrated to cut fibrous tissues but preserve rigid structures like blood vessels and nerves.
Benefits of Waterjet Surgery
Waterjet surgery offers several advantages over traditional scalpel techniques. The water is sterile, reducing the risk of infection. It also minimizes damage to surrounding tissues, reducing the chances of nerve injury. The incidence of recurrent laryngeal nerve damage during harmonic scalpel or diathermy surgeries is estimated at 15%, with permanent injury occurring in 1%.
Financial Considerations
The cost of the "Erbejet" waterjet surgery was approximately £3,000 for Sharif.
