In a rare and complex medical feat, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, successfully performed a dual surgical procedure on a 72-year-old woman suffering from both kidney cancer and advanced uterovaginal prolapse. The multidisciplinary team of urology and gynaecology specialists collaborated to deliver a minimally invasive, curative treatment that marks a milestone in integrated surgical care.

The patient had been living with a vaginal mass for over six months, experiencing difficulty in urination, frequent urges, and incomplete bladder emptying. Diagnostic evaluation revealed a stage 4 uterovaginal prolapse with cystocele—a condition where the bladder sags into the vaginal canal due to weakened pelvic muscles and connective tissues. Further investigation uncovered a 6–7 cm tumour in her left kidney, suspected to be renal cell carcinoma, a form of kidney cancer.

Given the tumour’s large size, a partial nephrectomy—which preserves part of the kidney—was ruled out. The surgical team opted for a radical nephrectomy, involving complete removal of the kidney and tumour to ensure full cancer clearance.

In a single, carefully coordinated operative session, the doctors performed a robotic left radical nephrectomy to remove the affected kidney, a vaginal hysterectomy to address the prolapsed uterus, a laparoscopic bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy to remove both ovaries and fallopian tubes, and pelvic floor repair to restore the patient’s pelvic support structures.

Explaining the innovative approach, Dr. Shakir Tabrez, Director – Urology, Uro-Oncology, Uro-Gynaecology, Andrology, Kidney Transplant and Robotic Surgery at Fortis Hospital, said: “Radical nephrectomy for large kidney cancers typically requires a sizeable abdominal incision. However, in this case, our collaboration with the gynaecology team allowed us to retrieve the kidney specimen vaginally after hysterectomy—eliminating the need for a large abdominal scar. The patient was left with only three tiny robotic scars, each less than one centimetre. This technique significantly reduced post-operative pain, shortened recovery time, and enabled her to walk the very next day, without compromising cancer clearance. It’s a perfect example of how robotic surgery and multidisciplinary teamwork can redefine minimally invasive care.”

Adding to this, Dr. Rubina Shanawaz, Senior Consultant – Uro-Gynaecology, Gynaec-Oncology, and Robotic Surgery, Fortis Hospital, emphasized the benefits of this combined approach: “The patient was battling two serious conditions — advanced stage uterovaginal prolapse and kidney cancer. By integrating robotic and vaginal surgical techniques, we managed to treat both in one sitting, sparing her multiple surgeries, repeated anaesthesia, and prolonged recovery. Interestingly, the kidney tumour was discovered incidentally during a routine check-up, underscoring the importance of preventive health screenings and early detection in achieving successful outcomes.”

Praising the clinical achievement, Mr. Chandrasekar R, Facility Director, Fortis Hospital, Cunningham Road, said: “This case highlights Fortis Cunningham Road’s expertise in managing rare and challenging conditions. Offering a scarless, minimally invasive procedure not only cured the patient’s cancer but also restored her quality of life. We remain committed to delivering advanced, compassionate, and patient-centric care using the latest medical technologies.”

The surgery exemplifies how technological precision, clinical innovation, and teamwork can come together to transform patient outcomes — particularly for elderly individuals facing multiple, complex health challenges.