Resection of Pediatric Brain Tumors: Intraoperative Ultrasound Revisited

Extent of resection is a very important prognostic marker in most pediatric brain tumors. Intraoperative imaging facilitates resection control. Intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) is a cost-effective alternative to intraoperative magnetic resonance, but scant literature addresses its utility in this context.

We retrospectively reviewed all pediatric brain tumors operated at our center using navigated three-dimensional ultrasound (US). The utility of the US in resection control was recorded and extent of resection evaluated.

IOUS was used in 20 cases (3 for frameless biopsy and 17 for tumor resection control). It was 100% accurate in localizing all tumors and yielded 100% diagnosis in the biopsy cases. Technical limitations precluded its use in 2 of the 17 cases of tumor resection. In the remaining 15, it correctly predicted the residual tumor status in 13 cases (87%). A gross total resection was achieved overall in 12 cases (80%) with postoperative morbidity in only one case.

IOUS is a useful tool to localize intracranial tumors and guide the resection reliably. Widespread use can improve its applicability and make it an effective intraoperative imaging tool in pediatric brain tumors.