South Coast hospital records region’s first incisionless brain surgery
The medical team reached the tumour through the patient's nose.
In a ground-breaking medical milestone for the South Coast, Shelly Beach Hospital has successfully performed the region’s first-ever endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal pituitary tumour resection.
The procedure marks the first time a brain tumour has been removed in the area without a single external incision, indicating a new era of world-class healthcare accessible right at home.
This feat was made possible through the seamless collaboration of neurosurgeon Dr Yandisa Nxakama, ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgeon Dr Lungelwa Sigonya, and anaesthesiologist Dr Gunseli Malleck.
The surgery targeted a tumour on the pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain.
Traditionally, such procedures required a craniotomy (opening the skull) which involves a longer recovery and higher physical trauma.
Instead, this team reached the tumour through the patient’s nose.
The procedure began with Dr Sigonya (ENT), who opened a specialised working channel through the nasal passage and into the sphenoid sinus.
Dr Nxakama (neurosurgeon) then took over, opening the pituitary fossa at the base of the brain to access and meticulously remove the tumour.
Throughout the high-stakes operation, Dr Malleck (anaesthesiologist) ensured the patient’s vitals and specialised sedation levels remained stable for such a delicate neurological task.
The surgical team utilised a computer-guided navigation system and a high-definition endoscopic camera to navigate the complex anatomy of the skull base with millimetre precision.
This technology allows surgeons to ‘see’ around corners, ensuring the tumour is removed safely while protecting vital surrounding structures.
To conclude the surgery, the team used a small piece of fat harvested from the patient’s thigh to patch the base of the brain.
This was secured with specialised tissue glue to prevent the leakage of cerebrospinal fluid, ensuring a robust internal seal without any visible scarring.
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