Indian American Army doctor develops innovative brain surgery that avoids opening skull
New York, July 31
An Indian American Army surgeon, Major Jagatkumar Patel, has been credited with developing an innovative surgery to remove brain tumors without having to open the skull enabling quick recovery.
He and an Army neurosurgeon came up with a way of operating on a tumor at the base of the skull by going through the nose, according to the Pentagon.
"Historically, most of these surgeries were done open, which is a much more challenging procedure for the patient," Patel said.
"Today, if a tumor is the appropriate size and location, open surgery just isn't necessary", he said. "Through the nose, we get the best access and the best chance of complete removal".
Recently, Patel and Lt. Col. Charles Miller successfully carried out the innovative procedure on Marine Staff Sergeant Andy Archer, who had suffered pounding headaches for 15 years.
When he developed vision problems recently, doctors ran an MRI scan that found a tumor about the size of a golf ball, measuring 4.4 centimetres, in front of the pituitary gland and pressing against the optic nerve.
He was brought to the Walter Reed Army National Medical Centre, the premier military health facility in Bethesda.
Patel and Miller decided on the innovative, minimally invasive procedure to extract the tumor entirely through the nose.
Patel developed a plan to navigate the complex nasal anatomy and create a clear surgical pathway, the Pentagon said.
Patel used an endoscopic camera to provide high-definition, close-up of the tumor on a surgical monitor, enabling Miller to dissect and extract the tumor safely.
"If he needs to get to critical structures, I can drive the camera closer, so he has perfect visualisation", Patel said.
Modestly, he added, "My skills in navigating the nasal approach are only useful because he (Miller) is skilled enough to completely remove the tumor once we get there".
"It is a true team effort", he said.
Two days after the surgery, there were no visible signs that Archer had just undergone major brain surgery, and he was already sitting up in the surgical intensive care unit. And his vision was beginning to clear.
"I don't think anyone else in the Defense Health Agency has this kind of team performing these complex skull base surgeries," Patel said.
"A minimally invasive approach through the nasal passages is more challenging and we are mindful that (the tumor) has to be in a certain spot to go through the nose," he added.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Incredible breakthrough! My uncle had a similar surgery but they had to open his skull, and recovery took months. If this technique becomes widely available, it will change countless lives. Kudos to the entire team for thinking outside the box. This is what modern medicine should look like.
As someone who works in healthcare, I appreciate how revolutionary this is. The collaboration between Patel and Miller shows how specialized teams can achieve what seemed impossible. The fact that Archer was sitting up just two days later is nothing short of miraculous. Well done, Army medical team! 👏
Brilliant work! But I have to ask - is this technology accessible in India? We have so many patients suffering from brain tumors, and procedures like this could save so many lives if made affordable. Major Patel should consider collaborating with Indian hospitals to share this expertise. Just a thought from someone who cares about healthcare equity.
Absolutely phenomenal! The dedication these surgeons have to their patients is inspiring. Endoscopic surgery through the nose is seriously complex - the precision required is unbelievable. Major Patel's skill in navigation and Lt. Col. Miller's surgical expertise make this a perfect example of teamwork. Semper Fi to Marine Archer for his resilience too!
Proud moment for all Indians! 🇮🇳 Major Patel's achievement puts Indian talent on the global medical map. The humility he displays is so deeply rooted in our culture - "It is a true team effort" - that's the Indian way. This also shows how immigration and diverse perspectives strengthen America's capabilities. Great story to start the day!
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