A 98-year-old grandmother has caused public shock by cutting off a hornlike growth on her forehead using a pair of scissors.
The “horn” is a traditional symbol of longevity in Chinese folklore.
The woman, surnamed Gu, from Shanghai, had been living with the growth on her for several years.
It measured around 3 to 4 centimetres in diameter and, after removal, was reportedly as long as a finger.
During a hospital stay for a separate treatment, Gu grew annoyed by the growth and cut it off herself without consulting doctors.
The results were alarming.
Guo’s forehead swelled rapidly and the wound became exposed; she began bleeding profusely.
Doctors said she was in a potentially life-threatening situation and placed her on the critical list.
Fortunately, Nie Hongpeng, a specialist in general surgery from the Chongming branch of Shanghai Tenth People’s Hospital, was on duty at the hospital that day and performed surgery on Gu.
Post-operative examinations indicated that the wound was clean and well-repaired, suggesting a smooth recovery.
Nie said later: “The procedure relied on stitches and compression. There were some challenges during the operation and a bit of bleeding, but fortunately, the entire team was highly skilled.
“Overall, the wound appears to be healing well, and we are preparing to remove the stitches soon,” Nie continued.
Gu’s family expressed deep gratitude to the medical team for their swift response and attentive care.
In medical terms, such growths are known as “cutaneous horns”.
They are often linked to long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation, among other genetic and environmental factors.
They have led to a folk belief in some areas of China that they are a symbol of longevity.
Online comments reflected such superstitions.
One online observer said: “My grandma also grew a horn on her ear like that, but it did not hurt or itch at all.”
Another said: “My grandmother had one too and lived over 100.”
While a third person wrote: “That granny is ruthless. She cut the horn by herself! Truly a descendant of the dragon!” - SOUTH CHINA MORNING POST
