Toby Peart, a 13-year-old from Strathpeffer in the Highlands, is recovering well after undergoing brain tumour surgery using innovative 3D exoscope technology at the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow. The procedure took place in November 2025, and Toby returned to school in January 2026.
First in Scotland to Use Advanced 3D Exoscope
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has become the first health board in Scotland to install the B Braun Aesculap Aeos 3D Robotic Assisted Exoscope. The system provides exceptional image quality, powerful illumination, and enhanced depth perception, designed to improve precision during complex brain surgery and patient outcomes.
Toby was among the first patients to benefit from this technology. He began experiencing pins and needles and pain in his left leg in April 2025, with symptoms progressively worsening over several months. An MRI scan at Raigmore Hospital in Inverness revealed a brain tumour, and he was quickly referred to Glasgow for specialist care.
Non-Cancerous Tumour Removed Successfully
Further investigations confirmed a tumour measuring about 13–14mm on the right side of his brain, which proved to be non-cancerous. Surgery was recommended and performed in November 2025. Toby's father, Marc, described the ordeal as the hardest few weeks of their lives.
“It was without question the hardest few weeks of our lives. Toby is a quiet, gentle boy who never complains, so when he told us he was in pain, we knew something wasn’t right,” Marc said. “Everything happened incredibly quickly. One day we were expecting to wait a couple of weeks for MRI results and the next we were being told that Toby had a brain tumour and needed specialist treatment in Glasgow. It was a huge shock for all of us.”
Rapid Recovery After Surgery
Marc and his wife Adie were advised that post-surgery outcomes could include loss of sight or paralysis. After surgery, Toby initially experienced weakness and paralysis on his left side but made rapid progress with support from a multidisciplinary team. Marc recalled a remarkable moment: “A few days later, I woke up and saw him using his right hand to lift his left hand into the air. He looked at me and said, ‘Dad, quick, look, my fingers are doing finger things.’ It was one of the most remarkable moments of my life.”
Just a week after surgery, Toby was discharged. Marc expressed gratitude to neurosurgeon Mr. O’Kane and the entire team. “We know not every family’s journey is the same, but we feel incredibly fortunate. Toby was back at school in January and he’s doing really well.”
Benefits for Surgeons and Patients
The 3D exoscope also improves surgeon wellbeing by allowing a more upright posture with a heads-up 3D display, unlike traditional microscopes that require prolonged head-down positioning. Roddy O’Kane, consultant neurosurgeon at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “Traditionally, neurosurgery meant working for hours with your eyes fixed to microscope eyepieces. This technology allows us to operate upright while gaining views and angles that simply aren’t possible with conventional microscopes. For children undergoing brain surgery, that enhanced visualisation can make a real difference. The ability to see more clearly and reach more effectively supports safer surgery and, ultimately, better outcomes.”
Emer Campbell, clinical lead and consultant neurosurgeon, added: “We’re delighted to have this technology in place. Beyond the clear benefits for our patients, we’re already seeing how it enhances teamwork, workflow and training in theatre.”
