GMC Anantnag performs first ‘ULAR’ procedure

Srinagar, July 08: Department of General and Minimal Access Surgery, Governmen. Medical College (GMC) Anantnag has performed the first Ultra-Low Anterior Resection (ULAR) procedure (Colo-Anal Anastomosis) under epidural anaesthesia.
A spokesperson of GMC Anantnag said ULAR is a critical operation used to treat low rectal cancers, involving removal of part of the left side of the colon, including entire rectum, along with supporting tissue and draining lymph nodes.
This complex surgery, demanding high levels of skill, precision was conducted by a team of dedicated surgeons including under the guidance of the Head of Unit, Prof. (Dr.) Mumtaz Din Wani, and the Head of the Department of Surgery, Dr Nazir Ahmad Wani.
The anaesthesia team under Head Anaesthesiology, Dr Anjum Shaheen, played a crucial role in ensuring the patient’s safety and comfort.
“Despite the patient’s multiple comorbidities, including hypertension and COPD, and a tumor located within 5 cm from the anal verge, the team employed advanced modalities for optimal care. This included the use of an epidural catheter for intraoperative and postoperative pain management,” the spokesman said.
The surgery, which spanned for 3 to 4 hours, was executed with the highest levels of meticulous skill by the dedicated doctors, technicians, and support staff.
The successful completion of such a high-order surgery reflects the vigilant and experienced efforts of both the surgical and anaesthesia teams.
Principal GMC Anantnag, Prof. (Dr) Rukhsana Najeeb, congratulated the surgical team for taking up challenging procedures previously performed only at GMC Srinagar and SKIMS.
She highlighted that the upcoming addition of a Surgical Intensive Care Unit (ICU) would pave the way for operating on even more challenging cases requiring ICU support.