Patient from Antigua and Barbuda undergoes complex surgery in Colombia for pancreatic tumor and uterine fibroids

• The Hospital Internacional de Colombia (HIC) successfully performed a highly complex surgical procedure combining a distal pancreatectomy and a hysterectomy on an international patient from Antigua and Barbuda, addressing both pancreatic and gynecological conditions in a single surgical event.

• The procedure involved the coordinated participation of specialists from hepatopancreatobiliary surgery, gynecology, intensive care, and other medical departments, ensuring comprehensive and timely management of all identified medical conditions.

• From her arrival at the hospital through her recovery, the patient received continuous follow-up care from the medical team, with special attention to ensuring that both she and her family clearly understood each step of the process.

Bucaramanga, Colombia, February 2025. The Hospital Internacional de Colombia (HIC) successfully performed its first combined distal pancreatectomy and hysterectomy on an international patient from Antigua and Barbuda. This complex procedure, carried out by a multidisciplinary team, enabled the comprehensive treatment of a challenging pancreatic and gynecological pathology, adding to the portfolio of high-complexity cases managed by the institution.

The patient, Delores Thomas, had been diagnosed in her home country with a large pancreatic tumor located in the body and tail of the pancreas, accompanied by a cystic mass adhered to the spleen and in close contact with the stomach. Due to the complexity of her condition and the absence of specialized surgeons in her region capable of addressing such pathologies, her primary care physician initiated a search for international medical centers with expertise in advanced pancreatic surgery and multidisciplinary case management. After evaluating several options, the HIC was identified as a center with the medical expertise, technological infrastructure, and capacity to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care tailored to her clinical and personal needs.

The decision to seek treatment in Colombia was based not only on the hospital’s medical expertise but also on positive references regarding the quality of care and patient-centered approach, essential factors given the complexity of the surgery and the fact that it would take place far from her home and family.

“From the very first day, I felt fully supported by the entire team. They were always attentive, explaining every step and making sure I felt comfortable and understood everything that was happening. I was also impressed by their constant effort to have someone available who spoke English to avoid any misunderstandings. That made all the difference — when you are so far from home and facing something so difficult, that kind of support really matters,” said Delores, who highlighted the continuous assistance provided by the International Office, the physicians, and nursing staff, not only in terms of medical care but also in the emotional support provided to her and her family.

For Delores Thomas, the postoperative recovery following such an extensive surgical procedure was both a physical and emotional challenge, made more manageable thanks to the support she received both inside and outside the operating room. “It was difficult at first — the body needs time to adapt after such a major procedure. But having my husband and sister by my side, along with the close follow-up from the medical team, gave me reassurance and confidence throughout the entire process,” she said.

She particularly praised the level of coordination among the different medical teams and the continuous support she received from her first contact with the HIC International Office through her recovery. “It was an experience that exceeded my expectations, not only because of the high-quality medical care but also because of the warmth and respect with which they treated me and my family every step of the way,” she added.

Delores Thomas’ case illustrates how the Hospital Internacional de Colombia manages the care of international patients with complex medical conditions, through close collaboration between multiple specialties and personalized support tailored to the patient’s medical and personal needs. This integrated approach not only ensures optimal clinical outcomes but also respects cultural and religious beliefs, ensuring a more compassionate and understandable process for patients traveling from other countries.

Cases like this are part of a growing trend of international patients seeking high-complexity medical care in Colombia, where they can access specialized medical teams and advanced treatments that are often unavailable in their home countries.

For Delores Thomas, the postoperative recovery following such an extensive surgical procedure was both a physical and emotional challenge, made more manageable thanks to the support she received both inside and outside the operating room. “It was difficult at first — the body needs time to adapt after such a major procedure. But having my husband and sister by my side, along with the close follow-up from the medical team, gave me reassurance and confidence throughout the entire process,” she said.

She particularly praised the level of coordination among the different medical teams and the continuous support she received from her first contact with the HIC International Office through her recovery. “It was an experience that exceeded my expectations, not only because of the high-quality medical care but also because of the warmth and respect with which they treated me and my family every step of the way,” she added.

Delores Thomas’ case illustrates how the Hospital Internacional de Colombia manages the care of international patients with complex medical conditions, through close collaboration between multiple specialties and personalized support tailored to the patient’s medical and personal needs. This integrated approach not only ensures optimal clinical outcomes but also respects cultural and religious beliefs, ensuring a more compassionate and understandable process for patients traveling from other countries.

Cases like this are part of a growing trend of international patients seeking high-complexity medical care in Colombia, where they can access specialized medical teams and advanced treatments that are often unavailable in their home countries.