«FOR THE FIRST TIME IN THE PERM REGION»: THE NATIONAL MEDICAL RESEARCH ONCOLOGICAL CENTRE PERFORMED A UNIQUE OPERATION AND SHARED THEIR EXPERIENCE WITH COLLEAGUES

For the first time in the Perm region, a highly complex breast reconstruction surgery using an autologous DIEP flap was performed. Previously, such procedures were only available in federal centers. But thanks to the joint work of specialists from the P. Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Institute and the Perm Regional Oncology Dispensary, this has become a reality.

Specialists from the Department of Oncology and Breast and Skin Reconstructive Surgery went to Perm at the invitation of their colleagues. The surgical team was led by the head of the department, Professor Aziz Dilshodovich Zikiryakhodzhaev. Teamwork with PhD Ilona Selimovna Duadze, an oncologist and plastic surgeon in the department, and PhD Djamila Shrinbekovna Jabraílova, an oncologist in the department. They were greeted by the team from the Perm Dispensary, led by the head of the Oncomammology Department, Elizaveta Robertovna Rudi, and the department’s oncologic surgeon, Sergey Anatolyevich Kaliman.

«The patient has been through a lot – unsuccessful reconstructions, implant infections. The only option to restore the breast after mastectomy was a DIEP flap. We coordinated everything in advance, reviewed the scans, prepared the equipment. And we came», – says Ilona Selimovna.

The special aspect was that the surgery was performed together with local doctors who not only assisted but also received full training at every stage of the procedure.

«It was a dream to work in the same operating room with colleagues from the federal center, to go through the entire process from marking to suturing. This is a huge professional step for us», – admit the specialists from the oncology dispensary.

Despite a history of radiation therapy and post-radiation vascular fibrosis, the surgery was successful. Local resources were also used, including their own microscope. Doctors from P.A. Herzen Moscow Research Institute of Oncology brought all the necessary equipment, including microsurgical instruments. The patient recovered quickly and is already preparing for discharge.

«Her knees were literally shaking when we entered the ward. The patient couldn’t believe that such an operation would be done here, in Perm. Afterwards, she said only one thing: ‘I am very happy. Thank you», — the surgeons recall.

Now, Perm Krai has not just a single clinical case, but a confident step into the future. The doctors have the methodology, experience, and contact with mentors. And most importantly — great motivation.

«Sharing knowledge is the main reason we go to the regions. Each such operation lays the groundwork for systemic changes. We believe that very soon these procedures will become standard even in the regions», – emphasizes Professor Aziz Dilshodovich.