For Emergencies:
At Bridge Referrals, collaboration is at the heart of everything we do. By bringing together experts from different disciplines, we’re able to offer truly comprehensive care — especially in complex cases that require more than one area of expertise. In this blog, we’re sharing the journey of Jasper, a much-loved patient who recently benefited from our unique multidisciplinary approach. With the combined knowledge and skill of our ophthalmology, oncology, and soft tissue surgery teams, Jasper received a tailored treatment plan that not only targeted a serious condition but also gave him the best chance of keeping his eye — and getting back to his happy, healthy self.
The lovely Jasper just one week after undergoing surgery to remove a tumour from behind his eye
Jasper was referred to us after his owner noticed something unusual: his left eye had started to move upward and forward in the socket. Not only was this causing Jasper visible discomfort, but it was also making him reluctant to eat — a clear sign that something wasn’t right.
Jasper was initially seen by Olivia, one of our experienced ophthalmologists. Concerned about the changes in Jasper’s eye, she carried out a scan to investigate what was happening behind the eye. The scan revealed a growth in a very tricky location — pressing from behind the eye and causing it to shift. In picture 2, the tumour is labelled T.
Imaging showing the tumour behind Jasper’s eye
Recognising the complexity of Jasper’s case, Olivia consulted with Darren from our oncology team. Darren carefully obtained needle samples from the mass — no easy task in such a delicate area, where there’s very little room for error. Thanks to Darren’s precision and expertise, we were able to collect enough tissue for analysis without causing damage to the eye itself.
Unfortunately, the results of the samples suggested that the growth was cancerous. At this point, our soft tissue surgery team became involved. Mark, one of our soft tissue specialists, reviewed Jasper’s case alongside Olivia and Darren. He discussed the surgical options available and outlined the challenges and benefits of each approach.
Jasper’s owner was understandably very keen to save his eye, if at all possible. Mark agreed that an approach from the side of the face — known as a lateral orbitotomy — might offer the best chance of successfully removing the tumour without removing the eye.
The steps for Jasper’s surgery are shown in picture 3. The arch of bone which protects the eye (zygoma; Z) was temporarily removed in order to access the tumour. Once the tumour had been removed, the bone was put back into position and implants were placed to keep in still while it heals.
Steps for Jasper’s surgery
Jasper recovered well from his surgery and we are delighted that he is starting to get back to his usual self and is already much more comfortable.
Cases like Jasper’s are exactly why multidisciplinary care matters. At Bridge Referrals, we’re proud to be the only referral centre in the region able to offer the combined expertise of soft tissue surgery, oncology, and ophthalmology — all under one roof. This means our teams can work side by side to create a tailored, efficient plan for every patient, and provide the very best chance of a successful outcome.
We’re so pleased to have played a part in Jasper’s journey — and we’re even more pleased to see him doing so well. 💙💚
