In a stunning medical victory, doctors at AIIMS Rishikesh have pulled off a rare surgery, removing a massive 35 kg tumor from a young man’s leg. This life-changing operation has grabbed attention across India, with people amazed at the skill and teamwork of the hospital’s staff. The patient, a 27-year-old from Uttar Pradesh, is now on the road to recovery, and the story is spreading fast on X and different news outlets.
Life-Saving Surgery at AIIMS Rishikesh
On June 24, 2025, AIIMS Rishikesh made history by successfully removing a 35 kg bone tumor from the leg of 27-year-old Mohd Salman from Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh. The tumor, a rare and aggressive chondrosarcoma starting in the cartilage, had grown over six years, making it impossible for Salman to sit, stand, or even use the bathroom normally. The mass, weighing 34.7 kg and measuring 53×24×19 inches, was so huge that it complicated MRI scans, requiring an angiography to map its blood supply. After failed attempts at other hospitals in Moradabad and Delhi, Salman turned to AIIMS Rishikesh. A team led by Dr. Pankaj Kandwal, head of the orthopedic department, performed a grueling six-hour surgery. The operation was a success, with Salman now recovering well in the ward and expected to be discharged soon. Dr. Meenu Singh, AIIMS Rishikesh’s executive director, called it a landmark surgery, setting a new standard for treating rare cancers.
This surgery isn’t just a win for Salman—it’s a beacon of hope for others facing rare medical challenges. The 35 kg tumor had taken over Salman’s life, leaving him bedridden and in pain. Now, with the mass gone, he has a chance to walk, work, and live again. The AIIMS Rishikesh team’s success shows what’s possible when skilled doctors, advanced tools, and determination come together. Social media is buzzing with praise—@aiimsrishi posted about the team’s hard work, while @ZEEUPUK called it a “new lease on life” for Salman. This case also highlights AIIMS Rishikesh’s growing reputation as a hub for complex surgeries, especially for patients who can’t find help elsewhere. Dr. Dhingra noted the tumor’s size made it a unique challenge, yet the team’s precision saved the day. For the medical field, this sets a high bar, proving rare cancers can be tackled with the right expertise. For Salman and his family, it’s a miracle, giving him a future he thought was lost.
