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Tumor resection by stereotactic craniotomy using the Brown-Roberts-Wells system
1Department of Neurological Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA. robert.maciunas@mcmail.vanderbilt.edu
Journal of Image Guided Surgery
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Stereotactic craniotomy using the Brown-Roberts-Wells (BRW) system precisely localizes subcortical targets for open surgery. This safe and effective technique improves patient outcomes for brain tumor resection.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Medical Imaging
- Oncology
Background:
- Precise localization of subcortical targets is crucial for craniotomies.
- Stereotactic localization techniques can enhance open craniotomy procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the application of stereotactic localization techniques to open craniotomies.
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of CT-directed stereotactic craniotomy using the Brown-Roberts-Wells (BRW) system.
Main Methods:
- A 2-year study involving 62 consecutive stereotactic craniotomies using the CT-compatible BRW apparatus.
- Standard BRW hardware and software were utilized for localization in 50 patients with subcortical mass lesions.
Main Results:
- Consistent and precise localization of targets was achieved.
- Histological diagnoses differed from preoperative imaging in 30.6% of cases.
- Gross total resection was confirmed by postoperative CT, with 38 patients showing neurological improvement and low morbidity (3.7%).
Conclusions:
- CT-directed stereotactic craniotomy with the BRW system is a safe and effective method.
- This technique successfully integrates stereotactic precision into open microneurosurgical procedures.
- The BRW system offers a readily available solution for challenging subcortical target localization.