Surgeons extract 77 needles from teen's skull in two operations

NEW DELHI: Doctors at Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR) in Odisha's Burla conducted a second surgery on a 19-year-old girl, removing an additional seven needles from her skull. This followed the initial operation where 70 needles were extracted.
The patient, Reshma Behera from Ichgaon under Sindhikela police limits in Bolangir, is currently under observation and will be assessed for other health issues that led her to seek help from the sorcerer.
"So far, 77 needles have been retrieved from the girl's head in two surgeries. Fortunately, the needles have not caused any bone injuries, but there are soft tissue injuries on her head," said Director Bhabagrahi Rath.
Rath cautioned against assuming the problems were solely psychological and stressed the importance of a comprehensive diagnosis.
Reshma, who has been suffering from frequent illnesses since her mother's death four years ago, sought the assistance of a sorcerer in 2021. The presence of the needles was only recently discovered when she complained of pain. Initially admitted to Bhima Bhoi Medical College and Hospital with severe headache, a CT scan revealed multiple needles in her head. Despite the removal of eight needles, her condition did not improve, leading to her referral to VIMSAR for further treatment.
The accused quack has been arrested, and Kantabanji police are investigating the possibility of other victims who may have been subjected to similar needle piercing by the sorcerer.
Reshma, now out of danger, will remain under post-operative care at VIMSAR for approximately a week.
(With agency inputs)