Mumbai: Unlike many senior citizens, Thane-based grandmother Saroj Dhonde never took medicines for chronic conditions like diabetes, and the only surgery she ever underwent was for cataracts in both her eyes roughly two decades ago. That was until she was diagnosed with cancer in Nov 2025. Then, at the age of 91, she underwent a three-hour-long robotic surgery that included removal of her uterus and ovaries. “The patient was diagnosed with carcinoma endometrium after a PET scan revealed a uterine lesion,” said Dr Anil Heroor from KIMS Hospital, Thane, who performed the surgery. While cancer surgery in nonagenarians is still rare, studies across the world showed it was an option for a section of patients. In Dhonde’s case, the cancer was stage-1 and she had no major health problems. For her 66-year-old son Praful, who was initially very reluctant about surgery, the fact that his mother would not need any other cancer treatment provided solace.In Nov, Dhonde, who is active but homebound, noticed vaginal bleeding. Her family consulted a gynaecologist who ordered an ultrasound scan that revealed an unusually thick endometrial lining. Further tests revealed malignancy. “We did not want aggressive treatment, so we consulted a homeopath, who advised us to seek onco treatment,” said Praful, who then turned to the doctor who treated his wife’s breast cancer. “The doctor looked at my mother’s file and said that surgery would possibly be the only treatment,” he said. He then directed them to Dr Heroor. “Traditional open surgery would have meant a long recovery period and a higher risk of complications for a nonagenarian. We therefore opted for a robotic-assisted surgery and also conducted a special test during the procedure to check for cancer cells in the pelvic lymph nodes,” said Dr Heroor.She underwent the surgery on Jan 10 and was discharged on Jan 13. On day one after the surgery, she was already out of bed and walking with the help of physiotherapists. “This case is a testament to how robotic technology, combined with expert care, can provide safe, curative options for elderly cancer patients who were previously considered high-risk for surgery,” said Dr Heroor. Dr Avanish Saklani, director (surgical oncology) at Fortis Hospital, Mulund, concurred, “Cancer treatment in older patients should be guided by overall health, not age alone.“Every surgery carries a risk, but avoiding treatment often leads to a decline in quality of life, with increasing pain, dependence, and suffering. “Elderly patients are often less able to tolerate intensive chemotherapy,” said Dr Saklani, adding that advances in minimally invasive and robotic surgery made cancer operations safer. “With careful assessment and modern techniques, many seniors can undergo effective treatment aimed at preserving dignity, independence, and quality of life.“
