Many of the computer-assisted neurosurgery techniques now used around the world were developed by neurosurgeons at Harper University Hospital. Computer-assisted navigational techniques enable physicians to perform neurosurgical procedures with incredible accuracy — leading to better outcomes for patients. Computer-assisted techniques are used to treat patients with many neurological disorders, including tumors, chronic pain, epilepsy and movement disorders.
Interactive Image-guided Neurosurgery
Interactive image-guided neurosurgery is the process whereby normal images such as x-rays, computed tomographic scans, and magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and spine can be coupled with directional devices to allow the surgeon to find a precise spot in the brain or spine, and utilize the most efficient route to that spot.
A variety of techniques are available at Harper University Hospital, including:
Frameless stereotactic surgery – The patient no longer needs to wear a metal device around the head during surgery. With frameless stereotactic surgery, the surgeon identifies fine points on the patient’s skull, scalp, or spine. The computer compares these points with the brain and spine radiology images to produce a precise map of the intended surgical targets.
Intraoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging (iMRI) – This advanced technology provides “near-real-time” images of the brain or spine during surgery — including changes to the brain and spine that result from the surgeon’s intervention. This allows the neurosurgeon to be more precise and make smaller incisions, but continue to deliver the most effective care at the site of the surgery.
Intraoperative angiographic localization – The role of interactive image-guided neurosurgery is expanding with the use of intraoperative angiographic localization in three dimensions, which allows for more precise and complete angiographic care.
Gamma Knife® Radiosurgery – Gamma Knife® radiosurgery is a revolutionary non-invasive technology that uses precisely targeted beams of radiation for brain surgery. The innovative and effective procedure dissolves lesions, malformations and other brain disorders with little or no damage to the surrounding tissue. The procedure is often used to treat patients with deep brain tumors, malformations and other disorders that would be otherwise inaccessible.
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