Intraoperative neurosurgical ultrasonography

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Imaging
• Diagnostic Ultrasound

Background:

• Ultrasound scanning is established for infant intracranial imaging via open fontanelles.
• Its intraoperative neurosurgical application remains underutilized.
• This study details experience with real-time ultrasonography in 36 neurosurgical procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility and effectiveness of intraoperative ultrasonography (IOUS) in neurosurgical operations.
• To demonstrate the application of real-time ultrasonography in diverse neurosurgical interventions.
• To highlight the benefits of IOUS in improving surgical precision and patient safety.

Main Methods:

• Conducted 36 intraoperative ultrasonography (IOUS) procedures over two years.
• Utilized a real-time scanner with 5 MHz and 7.5 MHz transducers.
• Applied IOUS in cases involving intracranial lesions and intraspinal tumors.

Main Results:

• IOUS proved effective across various craniotomy sites.
• Successfully localized and characterized intracranial and intraspinal masses.
• Aided in confirming complete tumor removal (22 cases), accurate shunt placement (5 cases), cyst/abscess decompression (3 cases), and real-time complication monitoring (36 cases).

Conclusions:

• Intraoperative ultrasonography (IOUS) effectively defines intracranial and intraspinal lesions and normal anatomy.
• IOUS application can reduce operative time and surgical morbidity.
• Physician expertise with sonographic equipment is crucial for accurate and efficient intraoperative neurosurgical use.