The use of Brainsuite iCT for frame-based stereotactic procedures
Jane Skjøth-Rasmussen1, Bo Jespersen, Jannick Brennum
1Department of Neurosurgery, Neuroscience Center, Copenhagen University, Rigshospitalet, Blegdamsvej 9, 2100, Copenhagen Ø, Denmark, jane@skjoeth-rasmussen.dk.
Background:
Frame-based stereotactic procedures are the gold standard because of their superior stereotactic accuracy. The procedure used to be in multiple steps and was especially cumbersome and hazardous in intubated patients. A single-step procedure using intraoperative CT was created to optimize the procedures.
Methods:
A combined fixation and low profile frame holder was designed for the operating table, allowing positioning for the scanning procedure immediately followed by the surgical biopsy procedure with the same positioning and head fixation. For placement of depth electrodes immediate CT control of positioning was feasible.
Results:
In the first 8 months the procedure was successfully used 65 times including 8 times in pediatric cases. The procedure duration in awake patients was on average 81 min (range 33 to 202) and in intubated patients (children) on average 89 min (median 89, 78-100).
Discussion:
This study demonstrates that frame-based stereotactic procedures in all brain locations are a feasible and practical technique with improved workflow and added patient safety and comfort.
