World Neurosurg
-
Changing paradigms of neurosurgical training and limited operative exposure during the residency period have made it necessary to evaluate newer technologies for training. Virtual reality (VR) technology provides three-dimensional reconstruction of routine imaging, along with the ability to see as well as interact. The application of VR technology in operative planning, which is an important part of neurosurgical training, has been incompletely studied so far. ⋯ Our study shows that there is improvement in understanding of surgical aspects after use of this VR system.
-
Successful surgery for epilepsy hinges on identification of the epileptogenic focus. Stereoelectroencephalography (sEEG) is the most effective way to identify most seizure foci. There are multiple methods of inserting depth electrodes, including frame-based, frameless, and robot-assisted techniques. Studies have shown the accuracy of frame-based and robotic-assisted techniques to be statistically similar, while only one study has detailed the frameless sEEG insertion technique. ⋯ VarioGuide frameless stereotaxy for sEEG placement is comparable to frame-based and robotic-assisted techniques with statistically similar rates of epileptic focus identification. Lead placement accuracy is slightly lower and time per lead is slightly higher relative to robot-assisted surgeries. When a robot system is unavailable, surgeons can consider using a frameless stereotactic technique for sEEG insertion, allowing patients to benefit from a similarly high rate of epileptic zone identification.
-
Butterfly glioblastoma (bGB) poses significant surgical challenges, yet recent findings have highlighted the potential of surgical decompression in extending patient survival.1-10 The selection of a surgical strategy for bGB varies across studies. Generally, the side with a larger tumor volume is a preferred approach route, and the nondominant hemisphere is preferred when both tumors are similar in size. The contralateral tumor is removed via the resection cavity of the ipsilateral side,11 with successful utilization of endoscopic-assisted techniques.8 In the case of deep-seated bGB covered with a thick intact brain, accessing the tumor requires creating an invasive corridor, therefore minimizing the damage to the intact brain is ideal. ⋯ We conducted the same technique for another deep-seated anterior bGB case, both resulting in postoperative Karnofsky performance status improvements (Video 1). Tailoring the surgical approach to the unique characteristics of each bGB case is important. The patients consented to the procedure and the publication of their images.