Violinist Plays Through Brain Surgery: A Medical Miracle

British Violinist Undergoes Brain Surgery While Playing, Preserving Motor Skills Isle of Wight resident Dagmar Turner faced a life-altering diagnosis in 2013: a malignant tumor in her right frontal lobe. However, her story took an extraordinary turn thanks to Professor Keyoumars Ashkan at King’s College Hospital. Instead of traditional methods, Professor Ashkan proposed a groundbreaking approach: removing the tumor while Dagmar played the violin. This allowed surgeons to precisely map the brain areas responsible for her left-hand movements. "It was a very emotional moment," said Professor Ashkan in a recent interview, reflecting on the success of the operation. "The music allowed us to work with precision, ensuring that we didn't damage any crucial areas." The operation successfully removed over 90% of the tumor, preserving Dagmar's ability to play. Days after surgery, she resumed her normal life, even returning to her symphony orchestra. In 2023, she revisited Professor Ashkan, expressing her gratitude. He expressed hope for a future musical collaboration, sharing his own passion for music. Dagmar's story is a testament to the power of music, medical innovation, and the human spirit's capacity for recovery.