Both K., 14

Both is a 14-year-old bright and cheerful teenager whose family lives near the Vietnamese border in Phnom Penh province. His mother works in a garment factory, and his father is a security guard. Both has two younger brothers. In school, Both is in grade eight and enjoys mathematics and playing football. He would like to be a policeman when he is older.

Both was diagnosed with osteochondroma, and underwent a surgical procedure to remove it under spinal anesthesia. During the surgery, great care was taken to avoid damaging surrounding structures, nerves, or blood vessels. The tumor was meticulously separated from the underlying bone, and afterward, the bone surface was smoothed to reduce the risk of recurrence and restore normal joint function. Following the procedure, Both was closely monitored in the recovery room and prescribed pain medication to alleviate postoperative discomfort. Physical therapy will be advised to assist in rehabilitation and regain normal joint function, allowing Both to walk normally again.

Exostoses rarely resolve of their own accord and can increase in size over time. The operation involves removing the lump level to the bone. There is a risk that a benign exostosis resulting from HME can become cancerous. When that happens, it's called an osteosarcoma. Children like Both and his two brothers suffer from visible deformities and will face various challenges, including social stigma, limited access to education and healthcare, and potential discrimination.