RSOJ Pertamina Makassar Successfully Performs Brain Tumor Surgery Using Stereotactic Method

Makassar, January 31, 2024 – Rumah Sakit Otak dan Jantung Pertamina Royal Biringkanaya (RSOJ) in Makassar successfully performed brain tumor surgery using the stereotactic method on Monday, January 29, 2024. This surgery is the inaugural procedure performed at RSOJ Makassar, making it a pioneer in East Indonesia.

Brain tumor surgery using the stereotactic method is a surgical technique that utilizes three-dimensional scanning to determine the exact location and boundaries of the tumor. The surgery is performed by inserting a small instrument through small holes in the scalp, eliminating the need to open the skull.

Dr. dr. Wahyudi, Sp.BS(K), FICS, FINPS, a Neurosurgeon at RSOJ Makassar, stated that surgery using the stereotactic method offers several advantages over conventional brain tumor surgery.

"The advantages of the stereotactic method include shorter operation time, minimal bleeding, and a smaller risk of brain damage," Dr. Wahyudi said.

"We applied this surgical method today for a patient with a brain tumor. Several tumors inside the brain were visible after scanning with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)," he explained on January 29, 2024.

"With the stereotactic method, there is no longer a need to open the skull. The patient's tumor position is measured accurately, with an error margin of only 0.01 mm. It allows a direct detection of the tumor's location, making it effective for its removal," Dr. Wahyudi added.

The stereotactic surgery involves several steps, including the placement of instruments on the head, followed by CT scans and MRI scans. From the combined results of CT Scan and MRI and using the stereotactic instrument, abnormalities or tumors within the head can be accurately determined in terms of quantity and coordinates using X, Y, and Z coordinates.

According to Dr. Wahyudi, surgery using the stereotactic method can also be performed more accurately, allowing for the complete removal of tumors. "This method can be used for other diseases such as Parkinson's, epilepsy, or rigid movement disorders," Dr. Wahyudi added.

"After the surgery, there is minimal bleeding, and the healing process is faster. This method can also be used for Parkinson's patients, reducing their dependency on lifelong medication. They can resume normal activities within two or three days after surgery," he further explained.

Fadjar Djoko Santoso, Vice President of Corporate Communications of PT Pertamina (Persero), stated that RSOJ Pertamina Royal Biringkanaya is part of the company's efforts through Pertamedika Indonesia Healthcare Corporation (IHC) as the State-Owned Hospital Holding Company to expand superior healthcare services for all layers of society.

"As a State-Owned Enterprise, Pertamina not only fulfills energy needs but also assists the Government in improving access to healthcare in regions with adequate facilities," said Fadjar.

Pertamina, as a leading company in the energy transition, is committed to supporting the Net Zero Emission 2060 target by continuously promoting programs that directly impact the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) achievement. All these efforts align with Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) implementation across all Pertamina's business lines and operations.**