Itanagar, Feb 18: In a significant breakthrough for healthcare services in West Kameng district, the Zonal General Hospital (ZGH) Bomdila successfully performed its first oncology (cancer) surgery on Tuesday, marking a historic milestone in the hospital’s journey toward specialized medical care.
The surgical team conducted a complex Modified Radical Mastectomy (MRM) procedure for breast cancer, completing the four-hour-long operation in a highly challenging setup. “Performing such an intricate oncology surgery in Bomdila’s harsh high-altitude terrain and extreme winter conditions, coupled with limited infrastructure and shortage of trained OT staff, makes the achievement particularly commendable,” official sources said.
Notably, such complex cancer surgeries are often referred to higher centres and are not readily undertaken even in many well-equipped hospitals. The successful operation reflects the hospital’s growing capability and commitment to delivering advanced healthcare services locally, reducing the need for patients to travel outside the district or state for specialized treatment.
The operation was led by senior anaesthesiologist Dr Ani Siram and general cum oncosurgeon Dr Tomeru Rina, supported by a dedicated OT team comprising nursing officers Pema Chuki and Reshmi Umpo, along with technicians Amit Kumar, Geyin Siram, and Lobsang.
The achievement has brought relief and renewed hope to the people of Bomdila and the entire West Kameng district, highlighting the steady strengthening of healthcare services in the region.
Meanwhile, physician-turned-lawmaker from Tezu and Advisor to the Health Minister, Dr Mohesh Chai, has congratulated the team of doctors and paramedical staff of the Zonal General Hospital Bomdila for successfully performing its first oncology surgery.
Dr Chai said the success story brings a ray of hope not only for the people of West Kameng district but also for patients from adjoining districts who can now access advanced cancer care closer to home.
He further stated that the achievement reflects the focused thrust laid by the Pema Khandu-led government in the health sector under the guidance of Health & Family Welfare Minister Biyuram Wahge. He added that the Health Department has been systematically working to strengthen secondary healthcare services by upgrading and reinforcing Zonal General Hospitals and District Hospitals across the state in a phased manner.
He expressed confidence that such initiatives would continue to enhance the quality and reach of healthcare services, ensuring better treatment facilities for patients within the state.