Surgical aspects using an exoscope for corpus callosotomy: initial experience for epilepsy surgery.

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Technology

Background:

• The exoscope is an emerging optic device offering enhanced visualization and instrument maneuverability in deep and narrow surgical fields.
• Corpus callosotomy (CC) is a surgical procedure to treat refractory epilepsy.
• Exoscopic CC has not been previously reported.

Observation:

• A 3-year-old boy with West syndrome underwent exoscopic CC as palliative therapy for severe seizure spasms.
• The procedure utilized an EX VITOM 3D exoscope and a 4K-3D surgical monitor.
• No exoscope-related surgical complications were observed.

Findings:

• Exoscopic CC provided high-quality stereoscopic magnification and illumination.
• Operative time was comparable to microscopic CC, even without prior exoscope experience.
• The exoscope facilitated easy instrument manipulation in the surgical field.

Implications:

• Exoscopic CC represents a novel approach in epilepsy surgery.
• The exoscope demonstrates utility and potential for improved outcomes in complex neurosurgical procedures.
• This initial experience suggests the exoscope is a valuable tool for pediatric epilepsy surgery.