Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 27, 2025

Author Spotlight: A Single-Entry Point Endoscopic Intraventricular Approach for Third Ventriculostomy and Pineal Biopsy
Published on: June 28, 2024
Robot-Guided Stereotactic Puncture and Drainage in the Treatment of Thalamic Abscess
Xiaoshuai Chen1, Xuemin Cao1, Quanmin Nie2
1Hospital of Weifang Medical University, School of Clinical Medicine, Weifang Medical University.
Abstract:
Brain abscess is rare in clinic, the reported incidence is only 0.4 to 0.90 per 100,000 population, and most of them have a history of prodromal infection. Headache and fever are the most common clinical symptoms, and only a few are accompanied by neurological disorders. For the treatment of brain abscess, the most commonly used treatment is stereotactic puncture drainage and antibacterial therapy. A patient with a left thalamic abscess with no history of prodromal infection was reported. Stereotactic puncture and drainage were performed under the guidance of the Ruimi robot. The bacterial culture of the abscess was Streptococcus constellation ( Streptococcus constellatus ). The patient was discharged after 4 weeks of antibacterial treatment with vancomycin. The patients were followed up half a year after the operation, the prognosis was good and there was no recurrence.
Insights
This case report details a rare brain abscess successfully treated with robotic-assisted stereotactic drainage and vancomycin. The patient experienced a good prognosis with no recurrence after six months.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Brain abscesses are uncommon, affecting 0.4-0.9 per 100,000 people, often preceded by infection.
- Headache and fever are typical symptoms; neurological deficits are less common.
- Standard treatment involves stereotactic drainage and antibiotics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a unique case of a left thalamic brain abscess.
- To highlight the use of robotic-assisted surgery in treating brain abscess.
- To document the successful outcome of a specific treatment regimen.
Main Methods:
- A patient with a left thalamic abscess, lacking a prodromal infection history, was treated.
- Stereotactic puncture and drainage were performed using the Ruimi robot for guidance.
- Abscess fluid underwent bacterial culture, identifying Streptococcus constellatus.
Main Results:
- The patient received 4 weeks of vancomycin for antibacterial therapy.
- Post-treatment follow-up at six months showed a good prognosis.
- No recurrence of the brain abscess was observed.
Conclusions:
- Robotic-assisted stereotactic drainage is a viable option for treating brain abscesses.
- Prompt diagnosis and targeted antibiotic therapy, such as vancomycin, are crucial for successful outcomes.
- This case demonstrates effective management and favorable long-term prognosis for thalamic brain abscesses.

