Clinical case: the removal of a giant brain tumor in a three-month-old patient

Friday,  2  Май  2025

Doctors at the National Center for Neurosurgery successfully performed one of the most complex procedures — the removal of a giant brain tumor in a three-month-old patient.

According to the baby’s mother, Aibat, the girl was born full-term and developed normally. However, at two months of age, alarming symptoms appeared: frequent regurgitation, refusal to breastfeed, bluish skin discoloration, and severe restlessness. The parents immediately consulted a pediatrician and then a neurologist.

An ultrasound revealed a fluid-filled mass in the parieto-occipital region, and a subsequent CT scan confirmed a space-occupying lesion in the left parietal lobe. MRI showed a tumor measuring 5.6 × 4.2 cm located in functionally significant areas of the brain.

After consultations with pediatric neurosurgeons Dmitry Surdin, Alibek Zharasov, and Deputy Chairman of the Board Asylbek Kaliyev, a decision was made to proceed with urgent surgery. The child was hospitalized in the Pediatric Neurosurgery Department under an administrative quota.

As noted by the Head of the Pediatric Neurosurgery Department, Professor Gabit Olenbay, the operation was extremely challenging: the tumor occupied nearly half of the infant’s brain, and the risk of blood loss was very high. Nevertheless, thanks to coordinated teamwork, modern surgical techniques, and the Center’s advanced equipment, the operation was successful.

“We removed the tumor using a microsurgical method. The girl is currently undergoing postoperative treatment and is already feeling better. The regurgitation has stopped, and her overall condition has improved,” said Professor Gabit Olenbay.

The baby’s mother struggled to hold back her emotions:

“I prepared myself for everything and understood the risks. But a miracle happened — my daughter is alive, and she is well. I sincerely thank the doctors, especially Dmitry Andreevich Surdin, and the entire medical team. Thank you for saving my child!”

Anesthesiologists and transfusion specialists also played a crucial role in the operation, as anesthesia management and monitoring such a young patient require exceptional precision and vigilance. The team included anesthesiologist-resuscitator Aigul Zhandeldinova, nurse anesthetist Gulzira Daukenova, transfusion specialist Yerbol Kuanyshev, and operating room nurse Alua Daukenova.

This little girl’s story is a powerful example of professionalism, teamwork, and dedication — inspiring hope and confidence in the capabilities of modern medicine in Kazakhstan.