In the face of daunting medical challenges, one young woman’s resilience and the innovative spirit of her medical team led to a groundbreaking success story. Karla Flores, a remarkable 19-year-old, turned a rare cancer diagnosis into a tale of hope, bravery, and unyielding determination.

Karla’s journey began unexpectedly when she started experiencing double vision. After a series of tests, she was diagnosed with a chordoma, a rare tumor affecting the spine that appears only about 300 times annually across the entire country. It was a shocking discovery that sent ripples of concern through her family.

After her diagnosis, she was referred to Dr. Mohammed Labib at the University of Maryland Medical Center. He explained that the tumor pressing against her cranial nerve was the culprit behind her double vision. Determined to help her, he ordered an MRI to gain a clearer picture for the upcoming surgery. To everyone’s surprise, the MRI revealed a second chordoma, this time entwined around her vertebrae, making her case even more complex and rare.

Facing such an extraordinary challenge, Dr. Labib faced discouraging opinions from some colleagues who felt that the situation might be beyond hope. “You might want to consider palliative care,” one advised. But Dr. Labib was not ready to give up on Karla. He believed in exploring every option available to give her a fighting chance.

After thorough research and planning, Dr. Labib devised a unique surgical technique he referred to as the “third nostril” approach. This intricate strategy involved accessing the tumor through her nostril and the area near her left eye, necessitating the removal of part of her cheekbone and delicate structures surrounding her eye.

The surgery was monumental, taking around 20 hours with Dr. Labib leading a skilled team that included facial reconstructive surgeon Dr. Kalpesh Vakharia and head and neck surgeon Dr. Andrea Hebert. Together, they meticulously navigated through the challenges of the procedure, all while ensuring minimal damage to surrounding nerves and tissues.

Miraculously, they successfully removed the tumors completely! Dr. Labib’s innovative approach not only saved Karla’s life but also left no visible scars, thanks to the use of bone grafts from her hip to reconstruct her facial structure. It was a triumph of modern medicine.

After the surgery, Karla underwent radiation therapy, and just a year later, she received the incredible news that she was cancer-free. Despite the challenges she faced, she remained grounded, reflecting on her journey with gratitude and strength. “I keep reminding myself to take one day at a time,” she shared. “Each step is an accomplishment.”

With ongoing therapy, Karla is regaining full movement in her eye, and Dr. Labib’s pioneering technique is set to pave the way for future surgical interventions like hers. Her story is not just one of survival; it’s an inspiring reminder of the power of perseverance, innovation, and the strength found in community and care.

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