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Operative Adjuncts in Pediatric Brain Tumor Surgery with a Focus on Suprasellar Tumors
Mohammed Alshareef1, Shadi Bsat1, Todd C Hankinson2
1Division of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital Colorado, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.
Abstract:
The primary objective of surgery for brain tumor resection has always been maximizing safe resection while minimizing the risk to normal brain tissue. Technological advances applied in the operating room help surgeons to achieve this objective. This chapter discusses specific tools and approaches in the operating environment that target safe surgery for brain tumors in children, with a focus on pathologies in the sellar/suprasellar region. Particular focus is given to tools that help with safe patient positioning; intraoperative imaging modalities; and chemical visualization adjuncts. Both static (preoperative images used for neuronavigation) and dynamic (images updated during the procedure) intraoperative imaging modalities are discussed. There is further overview of operative rehearsal and preparation strategies, which are rapidly evolving as virtual reality systems become more commonplace. While the rapid evolution of intraoperative adjuncts in neurosurgery means the status of a given technology as novel is quite transient, this chapter offers a snapshot of the current state of advanced intraoperative tools for pediatric brain tumor surgery.
Insights
Advanced operating room technologies enhance safe pediatric brain tumor resection, especially in the sellar/suprasellar region. Tools include improved patient positioning, intraoperative imaging, and chemical visualization for better outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Pediatric Oncology
- Surgical Technology
Background:
- Maximizing safe resection and minimizing damage to normal brain tissue are primary goals in brain tumor surgery.
- Technological advancements in the operating room are crucial for achieving these surgical objectives.
- Pediatric brain tumors, particularly those in the sellar/suprasellar region, present unique surgical challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss specific intraoperative tools and approaches for safe pediatric brain tumor resection.
- To focus on technologies aiding surgery in the sellar/suprasellar region.
- To provide a current overview of advanced intraoperative adjuncts in pediatric neurosurgery.
Main Methods:
- Review of technologies for safe patient positioning.
- Discussion of static and dynamic intraoperative imaging modalities (e.g., neuronavigation).
- Overview of chemical visualization adjuncts and virtual reality for operative rehearsal.
Main Results:
- Technological tools significantly aid surgeons in achieving maximal safe resection.
- Advanced imaging and visualization techniques improve precision and safety during surgery.
- Virtual reality is emerging as a valuable tool for surgical preparation and rehearsal.
Conclusions:
- Current intraoperative technologies represent a significant advancement in pediatric brain tumor surgery.
- These tools are vital for enhancing surgical safety and efficacy, particularly in complex regions like the sellar/suprasellar area.
- The rapid evolution of technology necessitates continuous updates on state-of-the-art surgical adjuncts.
