Patient Information

COMPUTER GUIDED NEUROSURGERY

Introduction

Computer-guided neurosurgery uses computer technology to perform minimally invasive neurosurgery. It involves creating three dimensional models of either brain or spinal anatomy within a computer workstation by reconstructing the patient's CT or MRI scans. This 3D model is manipulated and studied to develop surgical approaches and trajectories that involve minimal bone opening and minimal manipulation of normal tissues. The advantages of this technology include: 1) increased precision, 2) smaller surgical openings, and 3) increased margin of safety.

In cranial surgery, the use of computer guidance allows surgeons to find and reach the brain lesion through the shortest, safest pathway. In spinal surgery, computer guidance allows highly accurate placement of instrumentation, reducing risk of injury to the nerve roots and spinal cord.

Indications

Computer guided neurosurgery is performed on a daily basis. It is used frequently for brain tumor surgery, brain biopsies, pituitary surgery, ventriculo-peritoneal shunts, movement disorder surgery, and spinal instrumentation surgery.