Man With Massive Nose Undergoes Surgery
A Russian man with a massive tumor on his nose has undergone lifesaving surgery.
Doctors in Moscow performed the unique operation on a 63 year old local resident whose nose was turning into a trunk. It is not clear when the man's nose started its extraordinary growth. He was only admitted into the hospital when the growth reached his chin.
The man was reportedly having difficulties in eating and breathing. The proboscis was completely covering his mouth and in order to eat, he had to lift the tumor with one hand and use the spoon with the other.
He was apparently the victim of a disease known as Rhinophyma which causes abnormal growths on the nose. The disease is normally associated with elderly Caucasian men and is usually treated by surgery. However, such an acute case has never been reported before.
There were some hiccups initially when anesthetists had trouble fixing the oxygen mask on the patient's face. The problem was later resolved and the surgery, which was performed with the application of "cold plasma", proceeded smoothly.
"This is a relatively new method first used in 2005. Extra tissue is cut off with a special device . The advantage of the method is reduced blood loss, control over all removed tissue, absence of pain and fast healing," said a doctor.
He further added that ,"Smoking, alcohol, high blood pressure, diabetes may cause the disease. The first symptom is alteration of skin color. If you develop redness, blue color and uneven skin surface on your nose you should consult a doctor. Timely treatment will prevent further growth".
