Scotland’s youngest patients are benefiting from a new surgical innovation with the introduction of 3D exoscope technology at the Royal Hospital for Children (RHC), Glasgow.
The hospital has become the first in Scotland to install the B. Braun Aesculap Aeos® 3D Robotic-Assisted Exoscope, a world class system designed to enhance precision during complex brain surgery and improve outcomes for children requiring neurosurgical care.
The advanced technology provides surgeons with exceptional image quality, enhanced depth perception and powerful illumination, allowing greater accuracy during some of the most delicate procedures. By offering highly detailed, three‑dimensional visualisation, the system supports surgeons to operate with increased confidence and control when treating children with conditions such as brain tumours.
One of the first patients to benefit from surgery using the new system was 13-year-old Toby Peart from Strathpeffer, near Inverness.
Toby began experiencing pins and needles and pain in his left leg in 2025. Over several months, his symptoms became progressively worse, eventually leaving him in severe. An MRI scan at Raigmore Hospital revealed a brain tumour, and within days Toby was referred to the Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow for specialist treatment.
Further investigations confirmed a tumour measuring approximately 13–14mm on the right side of his brain, and surgery was recommended.
Toby’s father, Marc, said: “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.
“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.”
Marc and his wife Adie were advised by the surgical teams that post-surgery outcomes could include loss of sight or paralysis. When Toby woke from surgery, he initially experienced weakness and paralysis on his left side, leaving his family uncertain about what the future might hold.
Marc said: “When Toby came out of surgery, he couldn’t move his left arm or leg and couldn’t feel anything. At that point, we didn’t know whether that would be permanent or whether things would improve.
“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.”
With support from the multidisciplinary team, including physiotherapists and specialist nursing staff, Toby made rapid progress during his recovery.
Marc added: “Every day he got a little stronger. The care he received was incredible and it was amazing to watch his determination.
“Just a week after surgery, we were told he was ready to go home. Walking out of the hospital with Toby was an emotional moment and one we’ll never forget. We’re so grateful to Mr O’Kane and the entire team who cared for him.
“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.”
As well as clinical benefits for patients, the technology has been designed with surgeon wellbeing in mind. Unlike traditional microscopes that require prolonged heads‑down positioning, the Aesculap Aeos® system uses a heads‑up 3D display, enabling surgeons to work in a more natural, upright posture and reducing physical strain.
Mr 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.”
The system is also transforming how teams work together in theatre and how future surgeons are trained. Large high‑definition screens allow the entire surgical team, including trainees and students, to observe procedures in real‑time, in full 3D.
The Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow was recently named a Centre for Excellence for the care of children with brain tumours. Following a trial period last year, the neurosurgery team has now fully integrated the Aesculap Aeos® system into clinical practice.
Ms Emer Campbell, Clinical Lead and Consultant Neurosurgeon at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, said: “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.
“The ability for the wider team to clearly see and understand each step of complex surgery is a major advance. It’s proving to be an invaluable tool for training surgical residents and for explaining intricate procedures through outstanding visualisation.”
Verena Vogel, Digital Microscopy Specialist at B. Braun, added: “We’re proud to support the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow as they continue to lead the way in paediatric neurosurgical innovation. Their commitment to adopting advanced technologies reflects a shared focus on improving care for patients and supporting surgical teams.”