Manipal Hospital Goa Performs Rare Nerve Tumor Surgery, Successfully Removes Seven Tumors from Sciatic Nerve of 50-Year-Old Patient

Goa, 5th August 2025: Manipal Hospital Goa, has recently performed a rare nerve tumor surgery to successfully remove seven tumors from the sciatic nerve of a 50-year-old male patient with one of the largest tumor measuring 12 cm in length. The patient had reported a gradually enlarging, painful swelling at the back of his thigh, which over time caused pain while sitting and discomfort along the nerve pathway. Given the rarity and complexity of the case a multidisciplinary team led by Dr. Omkar Churi, Neurosurgeon, and Dr. Ameya Pednekar, Plastic Surgeon, Manipal Hospital Goa, took charge of the operation.
An MRI scan revealed multiple tumors intricately embedded along the sciatic nerve, the largest peripheral nerve in the body that supplies key muscles in the thigh and calf. Measuring only about 1.5 to 2 cm in diameter, the sciatic nerve is a vital structure—any damage can result in weakness, loss of sensation, or even paralysis of the lower limb.
Explaining the complexity of the case, Dr. Omkar Churi, Consultant – Neurosurgeon, said, “Nerve surgeries demand precise anatomical understanding and real-time feedback. We used advanced technology to ensure the nerve’s functionality was intact while the patient was under anesthesia. These machines allow us to stimulate parts of the nerve and monitor responses, helping us navigate the surgery safely.”
During the high-risk surgery, a carefully planned incision was made along the back of the thigh to access the nerve. Given the proximity of the tumors to delicate nerve fascicles—thin tubular structures within the nerve that carry motor and sensory signals—specialized intraoperative nerve monitoring and stimulation equipment were used throughout the procedure to prevent accidental nerve damage.
Dr. Amay has stated, “Successfully managing such a rare and delicate case required seamless coordination between specialties. Operating near a major nerve like the sciatic nerve demands not just surgical expertise but also careful planning, precision tools, and teamwork. This case truly reflects the strength of a multidisciplinary approach and the advanced capabilities we now offer in Goa.”
The team successfully isolated the affected fascicles and excised all seven tumors, preserving the rest of the nerve. Post-surgery, the patient experienced no weakness or sensory loss, marking a highly successful outcome in a procedure rarely reported worldwide.
Peripheral nerve tumors are lesser-known but can have debilitating consequences if not diagnosed and managed in time. Their symptoms may begin with mild pain or swelling but can progress to weakness, difficulty in movement, and nerve-related complications.
This successful surgery showcases Manipal Hospital Goa’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge neurosurgical innovations and delivering high-quality care locally. The hospital continues to lead in bringing advanced medical capabilities to the region and raising awareness about rare but treatable conditions.
About Manipal Hospitals
As a pioneer in healthcare, Manipal Hospitals is among the top healthcare providers with 70+ years of experience in India, serving over 7 million patients annually and 60 million patients so far. Its focus is to develop an affordable, high-quality healthcare framework through its multispecialty and tertiary care delivery spectrum and further extend it to out-of-hospital care. With the completion of the acquisition of Medica Synergie hospitals and AMRI Hospitals Limited (acquired in Sept 2023), the integrated network today has a Pan-India footprint of 38 hospitals across 19 cities with 10500+ Beds, a talented pool of 7200+ Doctors, and an employee strength of over 18,600.
Manipal Hospitals provide comprehensive curative and preventive care for many patients from around the globe. Manipal Hospitals is NABH and AAHRPP accredited, and most of the hospitals in its network are NABL, ER, and Blood Bank accredited and recognized for Nursing Excellence. Manipal Hospitals has also been recognized as the most respected and patient-recommended hospital in India through various consumer surveys.