In a significant medical achievement, neurosurgeons at Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) in Chennai, India, successfully removed a deeply-seated insular brain tumor using a pioneering eyebrow keyhole approach. This groundbreaking procedure, the first of its kind globally, represents a major advancement in Neuro Oncology, providing a safer, less invasive alternative for treating challenging brain tumors.

In a significant medical achievement, neurosurgeons at Apollo Cancer Centres (ACC) in Chennai, India, successfully removed a deeply-seated insular brain tumor using a pioneering eyebrow keyhole approach. This groundbreaking procedure, the first of its kind globally, represents a major advancement in Neuro Oncology, providing a safer, less invasive alternative for treating challenging brain tumors.

The medical breakthrough began with the diagnosis of a 44-year-old woman who had an incidental tumor in the insular lobe of her brain, discovered after a minor injury. The insula, deeply embedded within the cerebral cortex, is a particularly difficult area for surgical intervention due to its proximity to critical regions that control speech and movement, and its dense network of blood vessels.

Traditional surgical methods for insular tumors are fraught with risks, including paralysis, stroke, and language impairments, often necessitating that patients remain awake during the procedure, which can lead to further complications. Recognizing these challenges, the neurosurgical team at ACC sought a new approach.

Drawing on their experience with keyhole surgeries for skull base lesions, the team devised a strategy to reach the insula via a tiny incision in the eyebrow. This method, developed through meticulous planning, cadaver studies, and advanced computer simulations, promises a safer and more direct route to the tumor, significantly reducing the risks associated with traditional surgery.

Dr. Hrishikesh Sarkar, Senior Consultant in Neurosurgery at ACC, likened the achievement to a lunar landing, emphasizing its transformative potential. "This eyebrow keyhole approach offers a new frontier in neurosurgery, minimizing invasiveness and enhancing patient safety and quality of life," he stated.

Dr. Agnetia Vinoth, another Consultant in Neurosurgery at ACC, highlighted the innovative spirit of the team in tackling such a complex case. "We challenged conventional boundaries with this out-of-the-box technique, reducing risks and maximizing safety," she said.

Dr. Preetha Reddy, Executive Vice Chairperson of Apollo Hospitals Enterprises Ltd, praised the team's dedication to innovation. "This milestone showcases India's ability to pioneer groundbreaking medical advancements, reshaping global healthcare," she remarked.

The patient, grateful for the advanced treatment and swift recovery, expressed her appreciation. "The care I received not only healed me but also gave me hope and a quicker return to normalcy," she said.

This pioneering achievement by Apollo Cancer Centres underscores the power of innovation and collaboration in healthcare, establishing the institution as a leader in medical advancement on the global stage.