Early experience with real-time CT-fluoroscopy for an intracranial lesion

We have developed a real-time CT-fluoroscopy (CTF) system of which the initial trial was reported in 1993. This paper deals with the early clinical experience with this system. A third-generation scanner equipped with a slip-ring (Toshiba) was used. Images were reconstructed and displayed at a rate of 6/s with a 0.83-second delay time using a newly designed array processor. CTF was carried out in 12 cases (10 brain hemorrhages, 2 tumors). Good-quality fluoroscopic images were obtained in all cases. Real-time monitoring with CTF of needle placement and advancement was useful for accurate puncture needle biopsy and evacuation of the lesions. No serious complication was experienced in this series.