A transformative journey unfolded for two-year-old Maryam as she underwent groundbreaking surgery to alleviate the effects of Hydrocephalus, a condition causing an accumulation of fluid in the brain. Born with a head measuring 72cm, Maryam’s parents traveled 730 miles from Tajikistan to India, inspired by the success of a similar surgery on Roona Begum.
Maryam’s eight four-hour surgeries, conducted at Fortis Memorial Research Institute Hospital in North India, involved draining at least 500ml of fluid each time. Despite the challenges, the final operation reduced Maryam’s head circumference to 65cm. However, further reduction was limited due to the fusion of her bones.
Dr. Sandeep Vaishya, Executive Director of Neurosurgery, highlighted the complexity of such surgeries in young children. Immediate intervention is crucial to reduce risks and restore normalcy. Unfortunately, delayed surgeries can lead to fatal outcomes, while some rare cases witness increased brain size with survival.
Hydrocephalus stems from blocked arteries, causing fluid accumulation in the brain. In young children, the non-fused bones allow the brain to expand. Dr. Vaishya explained the significance of head size in relation to muscle development, emphasizing the challenges faced in corrective surgeries.
Initially hesitant due to low success rates and high risks, the medical team embarked on the challenging journey to reduce Maryam’s head size. Despite facing a critical moment where Maryam nearly succumbed, she displayed remarkable resilience.
The last CT scan indicated positive brain development, and Maryam started lifting her head, offering hope for a relatively normal life. While risks of brain damage persist, the surgeries provided Maryam with the best chance for survival and an improved quality of life. The medical team’s perseverance and Maryam’s determination turned a desperate situation into a story of inspiration and medical triumph.