WHAT ARE THE RISKS?

THERE is a 5 per cent risk of cerebral fluid leaking out of the entry wound, which can lead to meningitis.

A 3 per cent risk of stroke during the procedure.

Less than a 1 per cent risk of facial weakness or hearing deterioration on the side of the head being operated on.

ERLICK PEREIRA, a consultant neurosurgeon at St George’s University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, says: ‘This is a complex procedure, but the risks — while significant — are low. It has to be performed at a neurosurgical unit, of which there are fewer than 30 across the UK.’