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Susannah Morgan, a 45-year-old woman from Edinburgh, faced a difficult decision when doctors recommended surgery to remove a benign tumour in her neck. The procedure could result in facial paralysis and a permanent disfigurement, including a crooked smile. Seeking alternatives, she discovered a new hologram-based technique that could help preserve her smile by identifying the facial nerve's exact location during surgery. She became the first person in Scotland to undergo this procedure, which was performed by surgeon Iain Nixon in Livingston, West Lothian.
To prepare for the operation, Susannah underwent an advanced MRI scan in London, which created a detailed hologram of her tumour and surrounding structures. This hologram allowed the surgeons to precisely locate the facial nerve, minimizing the risk of accidental damage during surgery. Traditionally, removing the tumour would require cutting the largest salivary gland and potentially severing the facial nerve. In contrast, the new technique allowed for a less invasive approach, preserving the gland and reducing the risk of nerve damage.
The surgery was successful, but Susannah experienced a temporary crooked smile post-operation due to the movement of the facial nerve during the procedure. However, this was expected to be a short-term effect as the nerve had been carefully manipulated. Susannah expressed immense gratitude, acknowledging that if the nerve had been accidentally cut, it would have led to permanent facial paralysis. She felt relieved knowing that the technology had made the surgery safer and less likely to cause permanent damage.
Susannah first noticed the lump under her ear in November 2022, but it was initially dismissed as a salivary stone. After a year of growth, the tumour was finally diagnosed, and although it was benign, doctors warned that it could turn cancerous if left untreated. Many patients opt not to undergo surgery due to the risks of damaging the facial nerve, but Susannah was determined to find a solution that wouldn't leave her disfigured.
Iain Nixon, the surgeon who performed the operation, believes the hologram technique will become standard practice in the future. He explained that it provides a more targeted and confident approach to tumour removal, with fewer side effects compared to traditional methods. This technology offers a promising future for patients needing delicate facial surgeries, reducing the chances of permanent disfigurement.
The procedure's success highlights the potential of holographic technology in improving surgical outcomes. By providing detailed, real-time visuals of the anatomy, it allows surgeons to make more informed decisions, enhancing both the precision and safety of surgeries. The operation was a significant milestone in medical technology and is expected to revolutionize tumour removal procedures in the coming years.
