Nigerian Patient Recovers After Rare Tumor Removal at Aster Royal Al Raffah Hospital
38-Year-Old Nigerian Patient with Rare Skull Base Tumour Successfully Treated at Aster Royal Al Raffah Hospital in Complex 11-Hour Surgery
Specialists at Aster Royal Al Raffah Hospital in Al Ghubra, Oman, have completed a rare skull base surgery on a 38-year-old Nigerian patient. The successful outcome highlights the country’s growing medical strength and supports Aster’s “Treat in Oman” initiative, which promotes the country as a destination for advanced care.
Michael Ojabo – IT professional
The patient, Michael Ojabo, had struggled for years with symptoms that began as a simple nasal blockage in 2018. Over time, he developed severe facial pressure, eye bulging, and persistent pain. Doctors later diagnosed him with an inverted papilloma, a rare tumor that can spread aggressively. Because his tumor had extended into both the brain and the eye socket, several hospitals in Nigeria and neighbouring countries declined to take the case.
Michael chose Oman after researching treatment options. He noted the hospital’s reputation and said the medical team gave him confidence from the first consultation. Aster Royal Al Raffah accepted the case and brought together experts from ENT, neurosurgery, eye surgery, and anesthesia to plan the operation.
Doctors performed the surgery on May 24, 2025. The procedure lasted 11 hours. The team started with a craniotomy to reach the part of the tumor inside the brain. They then removed the remaining mass from the nasal cavity and the orbit. The operation relied on endoscopic techniques, microscopic tools, navigation systems, and real-time monitoring to ensure accuracy and safety.
The surgery was led by Dr. Khalil Ibrahim Macki, Senior Consultant ENT and Head and Neck Surgeon. He was supported by neurosurgeon Dr. Shashivadhanan, oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Alyaqdhan Al Ghafri, neuroanesthesiologist Dr. Abdullah Al Jadidi, anesthesiologist Dr. Narendra Kumar, and ENT specialist Dr. Vidya Bhargavan Panicker. They worked with doctors in Nigeria to coordinate follow-up care.
Michael recovered quickly. He was removed from ventilation the same day and discharged within five days. Scans showed that the tumor had been completely removed with no harm to his brain or eyesight. His facial appearance has returned to normal and he has resumed his routine. He described the experience as life-changing and praised the team for their clarity and support.
Dr. Macki noted that the case was unusual because of the patient’s age and the tumor’s spread into two critical areas. He said the outcome reflects Oman’s advanced surgical abilities and the value of teamwork across specialties. Dr. Shashivadhanan added that the tumor was pressing on sensitive structures, which required precise planning.
Deputy CEO of Aster Hospitals Oman, Shailesh Guntu, said the result shows that patients no longer need to travel far for complex treatment. He emphasized the country’s rising profile in medical tourism and its commitment to high clinical standards.
Cases of inverted papilloma spreading into both the brain and orbit are rare worldwide. Managing such a case successfully in Oman signals the progress of the country’s healthcare system and strengthens its position as a trusted option for international patients.
