Ballesteros' third bout of brain surgery is a 'success'

(EPA)

Doctors at Madrid's La Paz hospital yesterday declared Seve Ballesteros's third brain operation a success. The surgery lasted over six hours and was intended to alleviate pressure on the brain caused by an edema, and to remove remaining tumour tissues.

Ballesteros was diagnosed with a tumour earlier this month and has already had two operations – the second to reduce swelling on the brain.

A statement issued by the La Paz hospital read: "The patient, Mr Severiano Ballesteros, has been subjected to a new surgery that ended at 1700 today with no complications occurring. In the operation, the aims originally planned have been achieved and the edema and the remnants of the tumour eliminated.

"The patient entered the operating room of the neurosurgery service at 0830 for the preparation and process anaesthetic and the intervention began at 1030.

"It has involved three neurosurgeons, two anesthesiologists and three nurses. The patient is stable and is currently under observation in the intensive care unit."

Justin Rose earlier offered words of support to the golfing great. The Englishman, who had just completed his second round at the Castellon Masters, said all the players were waiting on tenterhooks for further news.

"Everyone is keeping a very close eye on the situation and wishing Seve all the best," Rose said. "We are all wishing him and his family well. I know everyone here is sending their heartfelt best wishes and thinking of him."