Tumor resection utilizing a minimally invasive spinal retractor with a novel cranial adaptor

This article describes a method of performing an intracerebral tumor resection utilizing a novel dilator attachment with a system designed for minimally invasive spinal surgery.

A novel dilator was designed and utilized in conjunction with a retractor system originally designed for minimally invasive spine surgery. Tumor resection was then performed utilizing a method less invasive than a typical cortisectomy but allowing more freedom than could be accomplished with an endoscope.

Two patients underwent a standard craniotomy followed by tumor resection using the novel dilator with the Pipeline Minimally Invasive Retractor System (DePuy Spine, Raynham, MA). The dilator was introduced into the tumor cavity followed by sequential insertion of the working ports until a working port of 20 mm had been inserted. Both patients had adequate resection of their tumors with minimal neurological deficit.

Tumor resection can safely be accomplished using a minimally invasive spine retractor system with a novel dilator adapted for the system. This reduces the size of the cortisectomy and therefore reduces the risk of post-operative neurological damage while still allowing ample room for adequate tumor resection.