Intra-operative high frequency ultrasound improves surgery of intramedullary cavernous malformations

Intra-operative ultrasound (ioUS) is a very useful tool in surgery of spinal lesions. Here we focus on modern ioUS to analyze its use for localisation, visualisation and resection control in intramedullary cavernous malformations (IMCM). A series of 35 consecutive intradural lesions were operated in our hospital in a time period of 24 months using modern ioUS with a high frequency 7-15 MHz transducer and a true real time 3D transducer (both Phillips iU 22 ultrasound system). Six of those cases were treated with the admitting diagnosis of a deep IMCM (two cervical, four thoracic lesions). IoUS images were performed before and after the IMCM resection. Pre-operative and early postoperative MRI images were performed in all patients. In all six IMCM cases a complete removal of the lesion was achieved microsurgically resulting in an improved neurological status of all patients. High frequency ioUS emerged to be a very useful tool during surgery for localization and visualization. Excellent resection control by ultrasound was possible in three cases. Minor resolution of true real time 3D ioUS decreases the actual advantage of simultaneous reconstruction in two planes. High frequency ioUS is the best choice for intra-operative imaging in deep IMCM to localize and to visualize the lesion and to plan the perfect surgical approach. Additionally, high frequency ioUS is suitable for intra-operative resection control of the lesion in selected IMCM cases.