In a groundbreaking achievement akin to a medical moon landing, neurosurgeons at Apollo Cancer Centres (ACCs) in Chennai, India, have pioneered a transformative approach to accessing and removing deeply seated insular brain tumors. This unprecedented technique, hailed as the world’s first, represents a significant leap forward in Neuro Oncology, offering patients a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional surgical methods. The journey began with the diagnosis of a 44-year-old woman who was found to have an incidental tumor nestled within the intricate folds of her dominant-side insular lobe. Traditional surgical approaches for insular tumors pose significant risks due to their location amidst vital brain functions and dense vascular networks. However, the innovative team at ACCs devised a revolutionary strategy, departing from conventional norms.
Leveraging their expertise in keyhole surgeries for skull base lesions, the neurosurgical team developed a novel approach—a minuscule incision in the eyebrow—to access the insular region. This method, born out of meticulous planning and advanced simulations, promises to minimize risks while maximizing patient safety and overall quality of life. Dr. Hrishikesh Sarkar, Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon at ACCs, likened the achievement to the historic landing of Chandrayaan on the moon’s south pole, emphasizing its transformative impact on neurosurgery. Dr. Agnetia Vinoth, another neurosurgeon at ACCs, highlighted the unconventional nature of the approach, which minimized risks and maximized safety for the patient.
Dr. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals Enterprises Ltd, celebrated the milestone as a triumph for Indian medical science, showcasing the nation’s prowess in pioneering groundbreaking advancements with global implications. The patient, expressing gratitude to ACCs, lauded the care and advanced treatment received, which not only healed but also offered hope and a swift return to normalcy.
