A six-hour surgery recently performed at FV Hospital has transformed the life of a 12-year-old patient, P.A.B.T., from Dong Nai Province, who was born with a complex congenital neurofibroma. This life-changing operation was carried out by Professor McKay McKinnon, an internationally renowned surgeon known for giving new life to patients with massive tumours once considered inoperable.

Nearly a Decade Without Hope – Until “a Miracle from Above”

At just two years old, T. was diagnosed with congenital neurofibromatosis, a rare disorder that causes tumours to grow along the nerves. Initially, his right eye began to enlarge abnormally. Over time, the tumour spread rapidly, invading the eye socket and optic nerve, causing severe drooping of the eyelid and progressively obscuring his vision.

Simultaneously, another large tumour developed in his right gluteal region, causing persistent pain, limiting his mobility, and preventing him from playing like other children his age.

For nearly ten years, T.’s parents tirelessly travelled between hospitals across the country, searching for a way to help their son. But they kept hearing the same heartbreaking answer: the tumour was too complex to remove safely, and surgery could cost him his life. One doctor even advised, “If possible, seek help abroad.”

Due to financial constraints, T.’s parents felt completely defeated and feared that their son’s future had come to an end.

In October 2023, through the Nang Buoc Tuoi Tho Foundation, T.’s medical records were sent to Professor McKay McKinnon, one of the world’s leading experts in complex tumour and reconstructive surgery.

Coincidentally, that same month Professor McKay McKinnon was in Vietnam on a business trip. After reviewing T.’s case, he arranged for the first surgery to be performed promptly at FV Hospital. Although the tumours were located in two different areas, after assessing T.’s physical and psychological condition, as well as the impact of each tumour, the surgical team decided to prioritise treatment on the face. The main goals were to relieve pressure in the orbital cavity, restore the eyelid, and partially recover the child’s vision.

“It all felt like a miracle from above. From the moment we sent the medical records to being called to FV Hospital, everything happened so quickly. Dr McKinnon was gentle and dedicated, and everyone at FV was so kind and supportive,” Mrs O., T.’s mother, recalled, her voice trembling with emotion.

A New Life Begins After a Challenging Six-Hour Operation

One of the greatest challenges of neurofibromatosis is its tendency to recur and spread. Two years later, T.’s tumour returned, expanding across the face and into the gluteal region (which had not been operated on previously), causing severe pain and leaving him almost unable to walk.

When Professor McKinnon returned to Vietnam in October 2025, FV Hospital and the Nang Buoc Tuoi Tho Foundation coordinated a second surgery, considered the most complex operation in T.’s entire treatment journey.

“The tumour in the back and gluteal area was enormous, firmly attached to the spine and gluteal muscles. On the face, two tumours surrounded the eye and cheek, intertwined with complex nerve networks. Our goal was not only to remove the entire tumour but also to preserve the nerves, maintaining both function and aesthetics to the greatest extent possible,” explained Professor McKinnon.

The operation lasted more than six hours. Professor McKinnon and the FV surgical team meticulously dissected each millimetre to remove all tumour tissue, operating simultaneously on both the facial and dorsal regions before reconstructing the skin and soft tissue to restore the patient’s natural appearance.

“After the surgery, Dr McKinnon walked out from the operating room looking utterly exhausted, however, instead of resting, he went straight to tell our family the good news. I couldn’t hold back my tears at that moment. I can only pray for his continued health so that he can return to help more children like my son,” Mrs O. recounted, her voice breaking as she described waiting outside the operating room.

On 20 October, T. was discharged from hospital. The second surgery not only gave him a new appearance, but also restored his mobility and reopened the possibility of a brighter future. Despite post-operative discomfort, T. expressed his joy: “I’m so thankful to the doctors. I want to get well soon so I can play with my friends again.”

Professor McKinnon and his colleagues at FV Hospital were deeply impressed by T.’s rapid recovery and optimistic spirit. “A positive mindset is always beneficial. Patients like T. must hold on to hope and perseverance, as full recovery is entirely possible in the future,” remarked Professor McKinnon.

Professor McKay McKinnon is an internationally recognised specialist in tumour, reconstructive, and plastic surgery, known for managing rare and highly complex cases. He has performed life-changing operations for patients around the world suffering from giant tumours, intricate neurofibromas, and congenital deformities. His work has advanced global medical practice and has also brought renewed hope and quality of life to countless patients.

In Vietnam, Professor McKinnon travels annually to collaborate with surgeons at FV Hospital to perform surgery on patients with rare and complex tumours or congenital deformities. Patients wishing to book a consultation can contact FV Hospital at (028) 3511 3333 for more information.