Surgeries That Blow Doctors’ Minds

Surgical techniques have literally become medical miracles. In these few videos, we will look at some of the most miraculous transformations that have been achieved through surgery. Let's get started.

Limb Lengthening Surgery

Ryan Wade, who is 5 feet 7 inches tall, underwent limb lengthening surgery by orthopedic surgeon Dr. Kevin Deviparshad. This groundbreaking procedure is expected to increase Ryan's height to almost 6 feet, offering him a new sense of confidence and satisfaction.

The surgery involves implanting steel devices into the bones at the top of both legs. Traditionally, this surgery was performed for individuals with leg length discrepancies, a condition where one leg is significantly shorter than the other, affecting balance and quality of life. However, in recent years, it has gained popularity as a cosmetic procedure for those wishing to enhance their height.

The procedure is both intricate and high-risk. It begins with breaking the bones and inserting metal rods that are gradually stretched to create gaps. The body then responds by generating new bone tissue to fill these gaps, effectively lengthening the limbs. Achieving two inches of growth, for example, may require approximately two months.

Patients are provided with a device that controls the extension of the implanted rods. This device can be adjusted externally using a remote control, allowing the bone to stretch one millimeter at a time. An alternative option involves carrying an external adjustment tool. Despite the lengthy process and significant challenges, Ryan is optimistic about the results, stating, "I have 70 more years on this earth, and I want to enjoy them to the fullest. I've wanted to do this since I was 14."

Costing a steep $75,000, the surgery is undeniably expensive. However, for individuals like Ryan who suffer from stature dysphoria — dissatisfaction with their height — the emotional and psychological benefits often outweigh the financial burden. Studies have shown a potential link between height and factors such as life satisfaction, salary, and professional success, although causation has not been firmly established.

The surgery is not without risks. Complications include infections, prolonged rehabilitation, and even permanent physical damage if errors occur. Post-surgery, Ryan faces three months of intense physical therapy to stretch his muscles and ensure his bones heal correctly while they grow.

Separation of Conjoined Twins

In June 2018, the world witnessed a remarkable medical achievement: the separation of two rare conjoined twins in Turkey. The twins were joined at the head, a condition known as craniopagus, one of the rarest and most complex forms of conjoined twins. It occurs in only about 1 in 2.5 million births and is more common among female twins, accounting for 70% of cases.

For their parents, Omer and Fatima Everentzer, the decision to proceed with separation surgery was agonizing. Leaving the twins conjoined would severely shorten their lifespan, yet the surgery posed significant risks, including the possibility of losing one or both children.

Channel 4 News documented the grueling process, which spanned over 40 hours of surgery performed in stages across seven weeks. For the first 18 months of their lives, the twins had only been able to see and interact with each other through mirrors. The surgery’s success finally allowed them to face each other and make direct eye contact for the first time.

Surgeries to separate conjoined twins are notoriously complex due to the shared vital organs and intertwined blood vessels. Despite these challenges, this groundbreaking operation gave the twins a new lease on life, demonstrating the remarkable capabilities of modern surgical techniques. Survival rates for such cases remain low, often in the single to double digits, highlighting the sheer expertise and precision required for success.

Awake Brain Surgery

Awake brain surgery, also known as awake craniotomy, is a cutting-edge procedure performed to remove brain tumors or treat neurological conditions while the patient remains conscious. This approach ensures that critical areas of the brain responsible for speech, movement, and other vital functions are not inadvertently damaged during surgery.

Patients undergoing this procedure are sedated initially but are awakened during the operation. Surgeons then interact with the patient, asking them to perform tasks such as speaking, counting, or moving specific parts of their body. This real-time feedback allows the surgical team to identify and preserve essential brain regions.

Awake craniotomy has proven invaluable in treating conditions such as epilepsy, brain tumors, and certain movement disorders. Although the idea of being awake during brain surgery may sound daunting, patients often report a sense of calm, largely due to the care and reassurance provided by the medical team.

With advancements like these, surgical techniques continue to redefine the boundaries of what is medically possible, offering hope and transformation to countless individuals around the world.