Brain Tumor Removal During Awake Surgery
A 44-year-old father of five, Paul Welsh-Dalton, underwent a rare and complex brain surgery to remove a tumor the size of a kiwi while he was awake and played guitar during the operation. Paul suffered from aphasia and headaches and was taken to the hospital after a seizure at home.
Diagnosis and Surgery
The doctors discovered a mass on his brain and diagnosed oligodendroglioma, a rare type of malignant brain tumor. During the five-hour craniotomy, surgeon removed 98% of the 4 cm tumor. To ensure that the surgeons did not damage any critical areas of the brain, Paul played music on his guitar, allowing the surgeons to assess his skills through his actions.
Music During Surgery
Paul played three songs – Good Riddance by Green Day, Tribute by Tenacious D, and Wonderwall by Oasis – as the surgeons worked on March 28. The operation was a success, and despite his tumor being classified as terminal, Paul was given more time thanks to the surgery.
Post-Surgery Treatment
Since the surgery, Paul has undergone radiation therapy for six and a half weeks and will start chemotherapy for nine months in October. His wife, Tiff, has been taking care of their five children, Max, Gracie, Maddie, Finnley, and Colby, while Paul undergoes treatment.
Personal Story
Paul, a health and security and quality inspector, said that playing the guitar during the surgery was a surreal experience. He had mentioned the importance of guitar playing to the surgeon during their first meeting, and the surgeon suggested bringing the guitar to the operating room. Paul’s wife, Tiff, was by his side throughout the ordeal and said that the experience was frightening, especially for their young children.
Road to Recovery
After chemotherapy, Paul will continue to have scans to monitor his tumor. Although the tumor is classified as terminal, Tiff remains hopeful, saying that "terminal doesn’t mean tomorrow." The family is staying positive and focusing on Paul’s recovery, and they are grateful for the extra time they have been given.
