Laparoscopic Surgery for Obese Endometrial Cancer Patient: A Bangalore Case Study

In a complex case marked by both surgical precision and adaptability, a 65-year-old woman with endometrial cancer and significant obesity successfully underwent laparoscopic surgery at Macs Clinic in Bangalore. Led by surgical oncologist Dr. Sandeep Nayak, this procedure highlights how advanced, minimally invasive techniques can support effective cancer treatment in patients facing unique medical challenges, even amidst financial and logistical constraints.
 

As cancer cases rise steadily in India, the demand for advanced cancer treatment in Bangalore has grown, particularly for patients with complex conditions that require tailored, minimally invasive solutions and Macs Clinic is creating new paths for this. Endometrial cancer, the most common gynecological cancer globally, affects over 380,000 women each year. According to the World Cancer Research Fund, obesity is a significant risk factor, linked to nearly 40% of endometrial cancer cases. Excess body weight impacts hormone levels, contributing to cancerous changes in the endometrial lining. For patients who face additional medical complexities like obesity, such cases require precision and adaptability to achieve the best possible outcomes.
 

“Every patient’s case presents unique considerations, and it’s essential to adapt our approach to match these specific needs,” says Dr. Nayak. “Our focus was on tailoring her treatment by using minimally invasive techniques, while also taking into account her individual health profile.”

In this case, the patient weighed 145 kg and was diagnosed with grade 1 endometrioid cancer. Initial evaluations raised concerns about lymph node metastasis due to enlarged lymph nodes, a common indicator of cancer spread. However, a careful assessment by Dr. Nayak and his team at Macs Clinic suggested that the lymph node swelling was likely due to obesity-related inflammation rather than cancer, a differentiation that helped avoid unnecessary interventions. The ability to make such distinctions can be critical, as treating an obese patient with cancer poses particular challenges. For instance, excessive subcutaneous and visceral fat can obstruct the surgical field, increasing surgery time and the risk of complications.
 

The patient’s insurance limitations also influenced the surgical approach, as her coverage did not extend to robotic surgery, which is often preferred in complex cases, especially in obese patients for its enhanced precision. Instead, Dr. Nayak and his team opted for a laparoscopic approach, which, while minimally invasive, demands significant skill and experience, especially in patients with high BMI. Studies show that patients with a BMI over 35 face a higher rate of surgical complications with open procedures, often making minimally invasive methods like laparoscopy the safer, preferred choice.
 

On October 21, 2024, Dr. Nayak performed a laparoscopic radical hysterectomy with removal of pelvic and lower paraaortic lymph nodes. Laparoscopic surgery, which involves smaller incisions and advanced instruments, is associated with fewer complications, lower infection risk, and faster recovery times compared to open surgery. “Laparoscopy allows us to operate with a high degree of precision while limiting the impact on the patient’s body,” Dr. Nayak explains. “For patients facing both cancer and obesity, minimally invasive options like this can make a significant difference in both recovery and outcomes.”
 

The patient’s post-surgery recovery was smooth and rapid. She was discharged within three days, a notable improvement over traditional recovery times for open surgery, which can often exceed a week. Studies indicate that minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy can reduce hospital stays by up to 50%, lower postoperative pain, and decrease infection rates—factors that are especially beneficial for patients with additional health risks (Wei et al., Journal of Surgical Oncology, 2009; American College of Surgeons, 2020; McCulloch et al., The Lancet, 2017).

Pathology confirmed negative lymph nodes, resulting in a final staging of 1b. Based on this staging, the patient will proceed with vaginal brachytherapy, a targeted form of radiation therapy that minimizes recurrence risk while reducing side effects. This focused approach is in line with a growing trend in oncology toward personalized, less disruptive treatments, especially important for patients already dealing with health complexities. “Accurate staging plays a crucial role in developing a targeted treatment plan that limits exposure to aggressive therapies,” Dr. Nayak emphasized. “This case illustrates the importance of combining advanced surgical skills with a focus on personalized, precise treatment.”
 

Dr. Nayak reflects on the case as an example of the adaptability needed in complex cancer treatment. “Cases like this show that with a patient-centered approach and the right expertise, we can achieve effective outcomes even when challenges are present,” he states. “Our aim was to ensure that her treatment aligned with high standards of care while supporting her overall recovery and quality of life.”
 

As the landscape of cancer care continues to evolve, cases like this one underscore the critical role of advanced, minimally invasive techniques in cancer treatment in Bangalore, particularly for patients with challenging health profiles. Dr. Nayak’s approach emphasizes the importance of individualized care, balancing surgical precision with patient-centered considerations. His work highlights how advanced techniques, adapted to a patient’s unique needs, can contribute to a safer and faster recovery, bringing relief and reassurance to those facing complex diagnoses.
 

This surgery provides a meaningful example of how advanced laparoscopic techniques and personalized care can improve outcomes in cancer treatment, particularly in challenging cases. With continued advances in cancer care, more patients can hope to benefit from approaches that combine effective treatment with shorter, less strenuous recovery periods.
 

About Dr. Sandeep Nayak
Dr. Sandeep Nayak, one of India’s leading surgical oncologists, and the Founder and Chief of Surgical Oncology at MACS Clinic, Bangalore, is globally recognized for his expertise in minimally invasive cancer surgery.

Dedicated to providing ethical, evidence-based, and innovative treatment options, Dr. Nayak ensures the highest standard of dependable care. His unwavering passion for advancing cancer treatment continually improves patient outcomes and sets new benchmarks in oncology.

For further details, Contact Dr. Sandeep Nayak –

MACS Clinic,
42nd Cross Rd,
8th Block, Jayanagar,
Bengaluru, Karnataka - 560 070
Email: support@macsclinic.com