Head tumors operated through eye socket at Virgen del Rocío

Published on May 25, 2026 | Translated from Spanish

The Virgen del Rocío Hospital in Seville has implemented a surgical technique that allows access to head tumors through the eye socket. This approach, less invasive than traditional methods, avoids opening the skull and reduces recovery time. Specialists highlight that it minimizes the risk of complications and improves the patient's quality of life.

neurosurgeon performing transorbital endoscopic surgery, thin flexible endoscope entering through eye socket, illuminated tumor tissue visible on high-resolution monitor, surgical instruments with micro-graspers and suction tips in sterile field, patient draped with surgical towels, operating room with advanced neurosurgical navigation system showing 3D skull reconstruction, soft tissue retractors gently holding eyelid open, blue sterile drapes, bright surgical lights focused on narrow entry point, cinematic medical illustration style, photorealistic technical render, cool clinical lighting with warm glow from endoscopic camera feed

How the new transorbital surgical route works 🧠

The technique, called the transorbital approach, uses small incisions in the eyelids or conjunctiva to access the skull base. Using endoscopes and microsurgery instruments, surgeons can remove tumors in areas such as the pterygopalatine fossa or the cavernous sinus. By not requiring a craniotomy, hospital stay and brain tissue exposure are reduced, which decreases the risk of infections and neurological damage.

The eye socket: the surgeon's new express highway 🚀

Who would have thought the eye socket would end up being a highway for surgeons. Now head tumors sneak through there as if going to a concert. The good thing is that patients save themselves the hard hat on their head and return home before they even have time to request discharge out of boredom. Of course, don't you dare wink an eye during the operation or the surgeon might get lost.