VR and 3D Tech Save Toddler's Kidneys from Cancer

In Chennai's Sri Ramachandra Hospital, a team of doctors achieved a remarkable feat. Employing a combination of virtual reality and 3D printing, they successfully preserved the kidneys of an 18-month-old cancer-stricken child. Initially, the plan was to remove both kidneys due to the presence of tumors, but after meticulous examination, they opted to extract only the tumors. Following chemotherapy and surgery, the child's kidney function was fully restored, leading to his recent discharge. Notably, this entire treatment was provided free of charge under the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister's insurance scheme.

Virtual Reality Gives a New Vision to Analyze Cancer Growth

Throughout September, Dr. Ramesh Babu Srinivasan, a pediatric urologist, donned virtual reality glasses, meticulously analyzing images of cancerous growths on both kidneys of the young patient.

Working in tandem with his team, they utilized 3D-printed models to make a crucial decision: removing solely the tumors while safeguarding the kidneys.

The Sri Ramachandra Hospital in Porur proudly announced on Tuesday that the child's kidney function had returned to normal, allowing for his release. Dr. Srinivasan reflected, "Back in August, we believed the only recourse was to take out both kidneys."

Given the infant's kidneys were only a third of the size of an adult, and with tumors nearly engulfing them, such a procedure would have meant long-term dialysis until a suitable donor could be found. Dr. Srinivasan emphasized the complexities, including the need for a donor of matching age and weight.

Incompatibility of Adult Organs

Furthermore, the prospect of adult organs being incompatible and the associated costs and potential growth delays for the child were significant concerns. Thus, preserving the kidneys became paramount. Dr. Srinivasan noted the rarity of renal cancers in infants, let alone in both kidneys.

With the expertise of pediatric oncologist Dr. Julius Scott, the child underwent six weeks of chemotherapy, leading to a substantial reduction in tumor size. This paved the way for a virtual reconstruction surgery, involving extensive simulation work and 3D modeling, culminating in the tumor removal on September 26. Dr. Srinivasan explained that while there are now indentations on both sides of the kidneys, they've been filled with a special gel. The child is slated for another round of chemotherapy to ensure the eradication of any remaining cancer cells.

Doctors expressed confidence that the kidneys will regain full function over time, with no protein leakage, stable creatinine levels, and normal urine passage (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
The influence of 3D renal reconstruction on surgical planning for complex renal tumors: An interactive case-based survey

Go to source).

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The entire planning and execution of this treatment was generously covered by the TN CM insurance scheme, underscoring the importance of accessible healthcare.

Reference:

1. The influence of 3D renal reconstruction on surgical planning for complex renal tumors: An interactive case-based survey - (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10335884/)

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Source-Medindia