A teenage boy who was diagnosed with a brain tumour after suffering pins and needles in his leg is one of the first to have undergone complex surgery using a new technology that has only just been introduced in Scotland.
Toby Peart began experiencing the common sensation – normally associated with growing pains – alongside pain in his left leg in April last year and his symptoms became progressively worse over the course of several months.
The 13-year-old from Strathpeffer in the Highlands had an MRI scan at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness which found he had a brain tumour, and within days he was referred to the Glasgow facility for specialist treatment.
View 4 ImagesToby’s parents were advised by surgical teams that post-surgery outcomes could include loss of sight or paralysis(Image: Marc Peart/NHSGGC/PA Wire )
An operation was recommended after further investigations confirmed a tumour measuring about 13–14mm on the right side of his brain, which proved to be non-cancerous. He underwent surgery at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow in November using the 3D exoscope, designed to enhance precision during complex brain surgery.
Toby’s dad, Marc, said: “It was without question the hardest few weeks of our lives. Toby is a quiet, gentle boy who never complains, so when he told us he was in pain, we knew something wasn’t right.
“Everything happened incredibly quickly. One day we were expecting to wait a couple of weeks for MRI results and the next we were being told that Toby had a brain tumour and needed specialist treatment in Glasgow.
“It was a huge shock for all of us.”
View 4 ImagesThe 3D exoscope has been introduced at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow(Image: NHSGGC/PA Wire )
Marc and his wife Adie were warned by medics that post-surgery risks included loss of sight or paralysis. Toby initially experienced weakness and paralysis on his left side but went on to make rapid progress.
Marc went on: “Toby couldn’t move his left arm or leg or feel anything which we didn’t know would improve. But a few days later he started using his right hand to lift his left hand into the air.
“He looked at me and said, ‘Dad, quick, look, my fingers are doing finger things.’ It was one of the most remarkable moments of my life.”
Toby’s strength improved and he returned home a week after surgery before returning to school in January. Marc said: “Leaving hospital with Toby was an emotional moment and one we’ll never forget.
“We know not every family’s journey is the same but we feel incredibly fortunate.”
View 4 ImagesThe 3D exoscope at the hospital(Image: NHSGGC/PA Wire )
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde is the first in Scotland to install the B Braun Aesculap Aeos 3D Robotic Assisted Exoscope, which provides “exceptional” image quality, powerful illumination and enhanced depth perception. The technology also enables surgeons to work in a more upright posture.
Roddy O’Kane, consultant neurosurgeon, said: “This technology allows us to operate upright while gaining views and angles that simply aren’t possible with conventional microscopes.
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“For children undergoing brain surgery, that enhanced visualisation can make a real difference. The ability to see more clearly and reach more effectively supports safer surgery and, ultimately, better outcomes.”
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