In a one-of-a-kind medical success, doctors at Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Hospital in Jaipur have removed what is believed to be the world’s longest hairball—a 210-centimetre trichobezoar—from the stomach of a 14-year-old girl. The girl was suffering from Rapunzel Syndrome, a rare psychological and gastrointestinal condition caused by the ingestion of hair and other non-edible items.
The teenage patient, from a small village in Agra district, Uttar Pradesh, had been dealing with severe abdominal pain and vomiting for over a month. A Contrast-Enhanced CT scan revealed a massive, elongated object occupying her stomach and extending into her small intestine.
What is Rapunzel Syndrome?
Rapunzel Syndrome is a rare form of trichobezoar (a hairball in the stomach) that extends into the small intestine. Named after the fairy tale character with long hair, this condition is often linked to psychiatric disorders, especially Pica—a condition where individuals consume non-food items such as chalk, stones, and hair.
In this case, doctors also found rubber bands, stones, wooden pieces, and threads entangled within the hairball.
How Did Doctors Perform the Surgery?
The surgical team from the Department of Surgery faced a significant challenge: the hairball had extended deep into the intestine. It was vital to remove the mass in one piece to avoid multiple incisions. The 2-hour operation was completed without any complications or need for blood transfusion.
The hairball, which measured 210 cm, surpassed the previous world record of 180 cm. The hospital is now submitting the case to the Guinness World Records for recognition.
A Story of Awareness and Early Diagnosis
This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and psychological evaluation in young patients exhibiting unusual eating habits. The patient, who had started eating chalk and hair in Class 6 due to peer influence, is now receiving post-operative care and psychiatric counseling. She is expected to be discharged soon.
At The Doctorpreneur Academy, we salute such inspiring stories of medical innovation, teamwork, and dedication. As we train and support the next generation of healthcare entrepreneurs and leaders, stories like these remind us why innovation and compassion must go hand-in-hand.
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