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Teen Beats Rare Skull Tumor Near Brain Arteries
19 Sep
Summary
- A 15-year-old boy underwent complex skull-base surgery for a rare tumor.
- The tumor was near critical structures like the carotid artery and optic nerve.
- A multidisciplinary team successfully preserved the patient's vision and function.
A 15-year-old boy from Kerala's Kasaragod district has undergone a life-saving, complex skull-base surgery at AJ Hospital & Research Centre in Mangaluru. The procedure addressed a rare juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibroma (JNA), a locally aggressive tumor that posed significant risks due to its proximity to vital structures.
The tumor was situated perilously close to the internal carotid artery at the carotid siphon and the optic nerve at the orbital apex. These vital structures meant the patient faced potential complications including severe bleeding, stroke, and loss of vision.
Led by Dr. Ajay Kumar, a multidisciplinary team of specialists performed a modified maxillary swing procedure. This demanding approach provided wide access to the skull base, allowing for meticulous microsurgical dissection. The team successfully separated the tumor from the carotid artery and optic nerve.
The successful surgery ensured the preservation of the patient's vision and neurological functions. Medical director Dr. Prashanth Marla K highlighted the case as a prime example of advanced surgical planning and coordinated care for complex medical conditions. The patient is reported to be recovering well.
