Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, BETHESDA, MD  –    U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Andrew Temme, a helicopter pilot stationed at Fort Belvoir, faced an unexpected and life-altering medical challenge when doctors discovered a large benign tumor in his nasal passage. The growth extended dangerously close to his eye socket and the anterior skull base, threatening his vision and ability to fly.

Temme was referred to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, home to the Skull Base Team, a collaborative, multidisciplinary group of specialists who treat some of the most complex head, neck and skull base tumors. Within days, doctors assembled a team to tackle his case.

Leading the effort was U.S. Army Maj. Jagatkumar “J.” Patel, a rhinology and anterior skull base surgeon and deputy chief of the Department of Head and Neck Surgery. Patel said the key to the team’s success is collaboration. “We treat complex and rare head, neck and skull base tumors through multidisciplinary collaboration,” he said. “We unite individual expertise with a singular focus on patient-centered care.”

Temme’s operation required a carefully coordinated plan. Because the tumor pressed so close to his eye and skull base, Patel brought in an oculoplastic ophthalmologist and a neurosurgeon. Together, the team performed a biopsy, developed a surgical strategy, and explained each step to Temme before proceeding.

The open communication left an impression. “Before the surgery, Dr. Patel was very communicative and made me feel comfortable,” Temme said. “The team answered all my questions and checked in often to make sure I was OK. I knew several specialists were involved.”

During surgery, doctors not only removed the tumor but also reinforced weakened structures to prevent regrowth or complications. Temme said the team explained in clear terms how they moved tissue to strengthen the affected areas, offering reassurance about long-term recovery.

Afterwards, Temme spent only two days in the hospital under close monitoring. The recovery ward, he said, made a difficult situation easier. “The patient recovery ward was incredible. We stayed an extra night so my wife could be more comfortable, and the staff made sure my pain and swelling were managed,” he said.

As swelling subsided, the vision in Temme’s left eye began returning, and follow-up visits showed steady progress. His family also noticed the improvement. “My family said I looked amazing this past weekend considering how involved the surgery was,” Temme said with a smile. “A huge thanks to the Skull Base Team, the nurses and all the staff at Walter Reed. My wife and I felt so well taken care of.”

Today, Temme is expected to resume flying within six to eight weeks, pending his medical flight clearance. For him, the experience was both humbling and affirming. “Absolutely, I would recommend Walter Reed as my hospital of choice,” he said. “The level of care, from the specialists to the nurses, was outstanding.”

Patel emphasized that cases like Temme’s highlight the hospital’s broader mission. The Skull Base Team, he said, represents a model of care that prioritizes collaboration, expertise and the needs of military families.

Temme’s story underscores the impact of that mission. For a pilot whose job depends on precise vision and health, the successful operation marked more than just a medical recovery — it was the restoration of his profession and peace of mind for his family.