Speed meets precision: rapid intraoperative diagnostics in neuro-oncologic surgery

Surgical resection of brain tumors is guided by radiology, anatomical relationships to critical neurological structures, and clinical metrics including patient age and neurological status. Intraoperative decision-making relies on histological assessment through smear and frozen section analysis of tissue; however, such approaches may be insufficient in the era of precision neuro-oncology. Molecular characterization now informs diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic response - factors that may directly influence surgical decisions. The integration of novel and rapid intraoperative diagnostic modalities holds the potential to enhance neurosurgical precision, reduce procedure-related morbidity, and maximize the overall effectiveness of modern multimodal brain tumor management.