Nerve Sheath Tumors Treatment in India

Pooja Johnson, a 42-year-old high school...

Pooja Johnson, a 42-year-old high school music teacher and violinist, began noticing a persistent, dull ache in her right shoulder and a strange 'pins and needles' sensation in her fingers two years ago. Initially dismissed as repetitive strain, the symptoms worsened. She started dropping her bow during rehearsals and experienced a disturbing loss of fine motor control in her right hand. An MRI revealed a 2.5 cm schwannoma, a benign nerve sheath tumor, growing on the brachial plexus nerve network in her neck. Her neurosurgeon, Dr. Chen, explained that while benign, the tumor was compressing critical nerves, threatening permanent damage to her musical ability. He recommended a surgical resection via a supraclavicular approach to remove the tumor while meticulously preserving nerve function. The 4-hour surgery was successful, with intraoperative nerve monitoring ensuring the delicate nerves were protected. Post-surgery, Pooja faced a challenging recovery; her arm was weak, and the tingling was initially worse. However, with dedicated physical and occupational therapy over six months, she gradually regained strength and coordination. A year later, she has returned to teaching and can play her violin again, albeit with some adapted technique. Her emotional journey was one of profound fear, terrified of losing her identity as a musician, followed by immense gratitude and resilience, learning to appreciate each note she can play again.