Surgeons at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust have achieved a UK-first by successfully removing a tumour through the eye socket.
Ruvimbo Kaviya, aged 40, became the first person in the UK to undergo this innovative procedure, using a flexible tube and an endoscope.
The pioneering surgery, performed by Mr Asim Sheikh and Mr Jiten Parmar, marks a significant shift in the treatment of skull base tumours. Traditional methods often require extensive incisions, removal of parts of the skull, and a lengthy recovery period. However, this minimally invasive technique involves accessing the tumour through a small, 1.5cm incision on the side of the eyelid.
Consultant Skullbase and Neurovascular Neurosurgeon at Leeds Teaching Hospitals, Mr Asim Sheikh, commented:
“This technique allows us to remove tumours without opening the skull or having to retract or compress the brain. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure significantly reduces trauma, enabling patients to recover faster with minimal visible scarring.”
Ruvimbo's diagnosis journey began in 2023 after experiencing persistent headaches for months. Initially managed with pain relief, the pain intensified by February 2022, with sensations that mimicked a toothache. Despite a visit to the dentist revealing no issues, an MRI at Leeds General Infirmary (LGI) diagnosed meningiomas on the right side of the back of her brain and the left side of her eye. These tumours, located in the cavernous sinus, were pressing on the nerve surrounding her eye and considered difficult to access.
Skull base tumours, traditionally removed through an open craniotomy, involve significant trauma and lengthy recovery. The endoscopic trans-orbital approach offers a safer, quicker healing alternative. Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust continues to lead in medical innovation, combining advanced technology with world-class surgical expertise.
Speaking about the process, Ruvimbo added:
“The diagnosis came as a shock. It was an incredibly stressful and overwhelming time. The pain was severe, and managing my medication was difficult. When I was told about the surgery, I stayed optimistic as the tumour was growing. Going ahead with the procedure was the best option for me.”
The success of Ruvimbo's surgery was underpinned by cutting-edge 3D planning led by Lisa Ferrie, the Trust’s Biomedical Engineer and 3D Planning Service Lead. Using a life-size 3D model, the surgical steps were meticulously planned and practised before the actual procedure.
Image credit: iStock and Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS FT
