Today's Edition
A.SREENIVASA REDDY (ABU DHABI)
A 41-year-old Filipina healthcare assistant’s life was saved after a complex brain surgery at a Dubai hospital to remove a tumour nearly the size of a tennis ball.
Jovelyn Sison Omes, who works at an aesthetic clinic, had been experiencing severe headaches, nausea, double vision, and a full-body seizure — alarming symptoms that prompted urgent medical attention. Imaging revealed a large, non-cancerous growth known as a falcine meningioma, spanning from one side of her brain to the other and pressing on critical areas responsible for motor control.
She was admitted to Aster Hospital, Mankhool on November 27, 2024. The following day, Dr Prakash Nair, Consultant Neurosurgeon at the hospital, led a high-risk procedure to remove the deeply embedded tumour.
“The tumour was large and located in a sensitive area near brain regions essential for limb movement,” said Dr Nair. “Thanks to timely diagnosis and the use of advanced tools, we were able to remove it completely and safely. In cases like this, a complete resection significantly reduces the chances of recurrence.”
Using a surgical microscope and ultrasonic aspirator, the team achieved a Simpson Grade 1 resection—meaning the tumour and its roots were entirely removed. The operation was carried out through four small openings in the skull, with no complications or need for blood transfusion.
Speaking to Aletihad, Dr Nair said the operation took nine long hours and credited the success to the combined effort of the anaesthesia team, trained nursing staff, and neuro monitoring specialists.
“The location of the lesion was in an eloquent area, which made removal particularly challenging,” he added. “Post-operative care was expertly managed by the intensivists.”
Omes, who has a history of asthma and high cholesterol, recovered rapidly. She was weaned off ventilator support within 24 hours, mobilised the next day, and responded well to physiotherapy. A follow-up scan confirmed complete tumour removal. She was discharged on December 5, 2024, just a week after the surgery, with no neurological complications. She returned to work one month later, according to hospital sources.
“I’m incredibly thankful to Dr Nair and the entire team at Aster Hospital, Mankhool,” said Omes. “I had been suffering for weeks, but now I’m pain-free and back at work. As a healthcare worker myself, I urge others not to ignore symptoms. Early intervention truly saved my life.”
