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An Immunocompetent Murine Model for Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy of Glioblastoma
Published on: November 15, 2024
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Highly realistic simulation for robot-assisted hypothalamic hamartoma real-time MRI-guided laser interstitial thermal
Santiago Candela-Cantó1, Mariana Alamar2, Carlos Aláez3
1Neurosurgery Department, Sant Joan de Déu Barcelona Children's Hospital, Universitat de Barcelona, Passeig de Sant Joan de Déu s/n, Esplugues de Llobregat, 08950, Barcelona, Spain. scandela@sjdhospitalbarcelona.org.
Summary
Realistic simulation safely planned laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) by identifying process improvements and enhancing surgical team coordination. This approach ensures a safer, more efficient procedure for patients undergoing LITT.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Medical Simulation
- Interventional Radiology
Background:
- Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) is technically complex, requiring multidisciplinary teamwork and patient transfer between the operating room and magnetic resonance (MR) suite.
- Real-time MRI-guided LITT presents significant challenges due to its intricate nature and the need for seamless patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and describe a highly realistic simulation methodology for safely planning MRI-guided LITT procedures.
- To identify potential safety improvements and optimize team coordination before clinical application.
Main Methods:
- A modified pediatric simulation mannequin with a silicone brain featuring a hypothalamic hamartoma was used.
- The simulation encompassed image planning, anesthesia, and surgical steps, utilizing stereotactic robotic assistance and an MRI-guided laser ablation system within a 3T MR scanner.
- All participants and equipment mirrored those intended for actual patient surgery.
Main Results:
- The simulation process design revealed no critical errors, confirming the feasibility of performing LITT with adequate safety.
- Specific recommendations for team positioning and interaction during patient transfers and within the MR room were validated.
- Several elements were identified that could further enhance procedural safety.
Conclusions:
- Highly realistic simulation is an invaluable tool for the safe planning of LITT, providing practical experience for professionals.
- Simulation significantly contributed to building a well-coordinated surgical team, leading to safer and more efficient LITT procedures.
