He was suffering from Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome (MALS), a rare vascular disorder affecting only 1–2 people per 100,000
Image for representational purpose only. Photo Courtesy: File pic
A Mumbai hospital has given a new lease of life to a man from Chunnabhatti, who had been struggling to eat food for more than one year due to a rare condition.
He was suffering from Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome (MALS), a rare vascular disorder affecting only 1–2 people per 100,000. The complex procedure was led by Dr. Jignesh Gandhi, senior Laparoscopic and Robotic Surgeon, using the advanced Da Vinci Xi robotic system, at Gleneagles Hospital in Parel.
The patient, 60-year-old patient Mahendra Sawant, lived with a painful reality, even a morsel or two of food would bring on unbearable abdominal pain, fullness, and repeated vomiting. Daily meals became a source of fear rather than nourishment, forcing him to go from one hospital to another without receiving a clear diagnosis.
The struggle was frustrating and isolating, as routine medications only masked his symptoms and never brought relief. It was only when he turned to the hospital that he finally found an answer.
“MALS surgeries are technically demanding because the artery lies very close to the aorta. Robotic technology gives us unparalleled control, magnified 3D vision and precision—making it possible to treat such rare and high-risk cases safely and effectively,” said Dr Gandhi.
While traditional MALS surgeries can take two–three hours with significant bleeding risk, the team completed the procedure in just 48 minutes, with negligible blood loss. The patient was walking, eating, and pain-free the next day.
“This surgery required meticulous hemodynamic monitoring and seamless teamwork,” explained Dr Anil Parakh, head of Anesthesiology at the hospital. “Careful planning and advanced anesthesia support were key to ensuring a smooth and safe procedure.”
“For years, every meal meant pain and fear. I had almost given up hope of ever living normally again,” said the patient, adding, “After eating even a small amount of food, I would get severe stomach pain and vomit almost every time. This went on for more than a year, and it not only affected my health but also my mind. I was constantly stressed, anxious, and even started losing hope because I couldn’t eat normally. After the surgery, it feels like I’ve got my life back. I can eat without pain, without fear. I am truly grateful to Dr. Jignesh Gandhi and the entire Gleneagles team for giving me a new beginning.”
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