US Army Surgeon of Indian Origin Removes Brain Tumor via Nose

The procedure, performed at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, involved a collaboration between Major (Dr.) Jagatkumar Patel, an Indian-American anterior skull base surgeon, and Army neurosurgeon Lt. Col. Charles Miller. The patient, a Marine Corps staff sergeant, had a benign tumor measuring 4.4 centimeters, roughly the size of a golf ball.

The surgical approach used the natural corridor of the nasal passages to access and extract the tumor, a technique that eliminates the need for a craniotomy, or opening the skull. This method typically results in faster recovery, less pain, and reduced risk of complications for the patient.

Patel, who specializes in anterior skull base surgery, highlighted the advantage of the minimally invasive technique. The team's successful removal of the tumor underscores the advanced surgical capabilities available at the military medical center.

The staff sergeant is expected to recover without the long-term effects often associated with traditional brain surgery. The case demonstrates the growing expertise in endoscopic procedures within the U.S. military health system.