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The Scanning Fiber Endoscope: A Novel Surgical and High-Resolution Imaging Device for Intracranial Neurosurgery
Gregory Walker1,2, Alick P Wang3, Patrick Z McVeigh4
1Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa and The Ottawa Hospital, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Operative Neurosurgery (Hagerstown, Md.)
|September 14, 2022
Summary
The scanning fiber endoscope (SFE), a high-resolution imaging tool, was successfully used for a minimally invasive third ventriculostomy in a porcine model. This demonstrates its potential as a therapeutic device in neurosurgery.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Medical Imaging
- Endoscopy
Background:
- The scanning fiber endoscope (SFE) is a novel, miniaturized, high-resolution, and flexible medical imaging device.
- It has been successfully applied in vascular beds (angioscopy) and duct systems for endoluminal imaging.
- SFE excels in various diagnostic imaging applications due to its advanced capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the SFE's utility in therapeutic intraventricular neurosurgery.
- To perform a third ventriculostomy and visualize cranial nerves and brainstem anatomy using an unmodified SFE via a transcranial approach.
Main Methods:
- A 3.7 French SFE system was employed without modification on a live porcine model.
- A third ventriculostomy was performed, and high-resolution images of the ventricular system, cranial nerves, and brainstem were acquired.
- A comparative analysis with standard rigid endoscopes was conducted for size and image quality.
Main Results:
- High-resolution, video-rate imaging facilitated the successful and uncomplicated performance of a third ventriculostomy.
- Detailed endoscopic visualization of the brainstem and cranial nerves was achieved.
- The SFE provided high-quality imaging comparable to standard-of-care devices.
Conclusions:
- This study showcases the first reported use of the SFE as a potential therapeutic device in intracranial neurosurgery.
- The unmodified SFE is suitable for transcranial neurosurgical applications, including third ventriculostomy.
- The SFE's imaging capabilities support its role in advanced neurosurgical procedures.
