Traditionally, brain tumor removal surgery involves opening the skull to access and remove the tumor. But have you ever heard of brain tumor surgery through the nose? This innovative procedure was performed by Dr. dr. Mardjono Tjahjadi, Sp.BS, Subsp. N-Vas, F. N-Onk, PhD, FICS, IFAANS, commonly known as Dr. Joy, on a 56-year-old patient at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri.
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Early Symptoms Experienced by the Patient
The 56-year-old patient rarely experienced headaches. One day, however, he felt an intense pain in his head radiating to his eyes, as if pressure was building from within. The pain worsened when he bent over to pick something up, and over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol had no effect.
While watching television, he noticed the scrolling text was blurry and unreadable. His vision became increasingly unclear, especially when trying to focus on small objects from afar. When watering his plants, he realized his eyesight had changed drastically in a short time.
This prompted him to wonder: was this a simple vision issue or a sign of something more serious?
After visiting an ophthalmologist, tests revealed he had only 20% vision left in his left eye and 80% in the right. Further testing showed he could only read text in the center of a vision test screen; text on the sides was unreadable unless he shifted his body.
He was diagnosed with bitemporal hemianopsia, a condition where vision is lost on the outer halves of both eyes—often a sign of brain abnormalities. He was referred for an MRI and to consult a neurosurgeon.
Meeting Dr. Joy: Neurosurgeon at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri
In his search for medical expertise, the patient discovered Dr. Joy, a renowned brain tumor specialist at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri. After a consultation, Dr. Joy recommended the Endoscopic Endonasal Transsphenoidal (EETH) procedure, a minimally invasive brain tumor removal through the nasal passage.
According to Dr. Joy, the tumor was located in the sella region of the brain, pressing significantly on the optic nerves. The EETH technique allows access to the tumor via the nasal cavity, eliminating the need for skull opening.
“We will remove the tumor as safely and thoroughly as possible, aiming to relieve pressure on the optic nerves and preserve the hormonal glands so that the patient can recover fully, with improved vision and hormone function,” explained Dr. Joy.
The surgery was successful. Just hours after the procedure, the patient began to show signs of improvement—he could read small labels on medicine packaging again, and his vision gradually continued to recover.
This case emphasizes the need for immediate medical attention when vision suddenly deteriorates. The EETH procedure offers a minimally invasive, highly effective method for removing tumors located at the skull base, with lower risks and faster recovery times.
Dr. Joy: Renowned Neurosurgeon with Outstanding Achievements
Dr. Joy is one of the most respected names in neurosurgery in Indonesia. Practicing at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri, he holds the MURI record for obtaining a PhD in medicine in the shortest time—completing his doctoral studies at the University of Helsinki, Finland in just 18 months and 12 days.
His research focused on brain aneurysms, and he further specialized in neurointervention and brain catheterization at Seoul National University Hospital, South Korea.
Dr. Joy is also among the few neurosurgeons in Indonesia experienced in performing Awake Brain Surgery—a complex operation where the patient remains conscious during the procedure.
With over 1,000 neurosurgical cases, including brain tumors, aneurysms, and DSA procedures, Dr. Joy is widely recognized as one of the most experienced and respected neurosurgeons in the country.
Dr. dr. Mardjono Tjahjadi, Sp.BS, Subsp. N-Vas, F. N-Onk, PhD, FICS, IFAANS (Dr. Joy) is available for consultation at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri on the following schedule:
- Monday: by appointment
- Tuesday: 14.00 – 17.00 WIB
- Wednesday: by appointment
- Thursday: 08.00 – 12.00 WIB
- Friday: 14.00 – 17.00 WIB
- Saturday: 08.00 – 12.00 WIB
If you’re experiencing similar symptoms or wish to consult regarding brain tumors, don’t hesitate to visit Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri and schedule an appointment with Dr. Joy.
To make your visit easier, use the Chat via WhatsApp, Book Appointment feature, or download the Care Dokter app from Google Play or App Store to access queue numbers and complete hospital information.
