Hülya Öztürk is a 58-year-old woman who weighed 170 kilograms and became bedridden due to unbearable pains. Years ago, she had suffered from an ovarian tumor. In 2003, a mass the size of a melon was detected in her left ovary and she underwent surgery. However, she developed a fear of doctors after the operation and did not go for regular check-ups for nearly a decade despite experiencing recurring symptoms.
With the onset of the pandemic, Öztürk distanced herself from hospitals, leading to a significant increase in her weight. She reached 170 kilograms and became unable to walk. Upon insistence from her son and daughter-in-law, she visited General Surgeon Opr. Dr. İlyas Şahin in Yalova, based on recommendations from acquaintances. During the examination, Dr. Şahin was shocked to discover a massive tumor measuring 70 centimeters in Öztürk’s ovaries, compressing her intestines and posing a danger to the major aortic artery passing through her abdomen.
Given the critical nature of the situation, Dr. Şahin decided to perform the surgery alongside Obstetrician-Gynecologist Opr. Dr. Emel Küçük and Jinekologic Oncology Specialist Prof. Dr. Taylan Şenol, who traveled from Istanbul to Yalova. In a complex operation, they successfully removed a 23-kilogram tumor from Öztürk’s abdomen, allowing her to regain her ability to walk and move freely after years of pain and immobility.
Prof. Dr. Şenol noted that ovarian tumors are commonly seen in women over the age of 50 and can grow to sizes between 5-10 centimeters, with 70-80-centimeter tumors being rare and posing a challenge in terms of treatment and outcomes. He emphasized the importance of early detection and regular check-ups for ovarian tumors, as they are often diagnosed in advanced stages.
Dr. Şahin, a General Surgeon, expressed his amazement at the size of the tumor in Öztürk’s abdomen, which had caused her severe discomfort and limited her movements. Obstetrician-Gynecologist Dr. Küçük also remarked on the sheer magnitude of the tumor, which had significantly impacted Öztürk’s quality of life. Öztürk, who had overcome her fear of doctors and underwent the life-changing surgery, described the medical team as a miracle and expressed her gratitude for the renewed hope and freedom they had provided her.
In conclusion, Hülya Öztürk’s journey from debilitating pain and immobility to recovery and newfound freedom serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the skill of dedicated medical professionals. The successful removal of the 23-kilogram tumor highlights the importance of timely intervention and expert care in overcoming complex medical challenges.
