Frame-based Stereotaxis

Frame-based stereotaxis is a method of navigation within and around the brain that utilizes a frame that is fixed to the patient's head prior to imaging and surgery. A computer system matches the MRI, CT and angiogram images to the patient using a stereotactic frame as the common 3-dimensional coordinate system. This system allows for a precise localization of intracranial abnormalities or tumors as well as critical neighboring structures within the brain. Additionally, it is designed to act as a holder to allow the surgeon to safely guide tools (like biopsy probes) to the desired location in the brain.

Frameless Stereotaxis

Frameless stereotaxis is a computer-based guidance system used to navigate in and around the brain. It involves the acquisition of MRI or CT images with small stickers (called fiducials) placed on the scalp to create a 3-dimensional space to help surgeons plan the exact location for incisions and craniotomies (bone removal), to define the margins of tumors and other abnormalities and to precisely identify locations of neighboring critical structures.

Frozen Section

Frozen section is a specific type of biopsy procedure to make a rapid diagnosis of a mass during surgery. With frozen section, the surgeon removes a small piece of the abnormal tissue in question and sends it for immediate analysis by a pathologist. The results are usually complete within minutes and are often useful in guiding treatment at the time of surgery.

Hydrocephalus

Hydrocephalus (derived from the Greek terms 'hydro' meaning water and 'cephalus' meaning head) is a condition in which there is excess accumulation of fluid in the fluid-filled chambers of the brain, called the ventricles. These chambers'called the ventricles'are filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that normally surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord. However, with excess accumulation of fluid, these chambers swell and can cause harmful pressure on the surrounding brain. There are multiple causes and types of hydrocephalus.

Intracranial Pressure (ICP) Monitor

Intracranial pressure (ICP) monitors are devices that measure the pressure in and around the brain. They are most commonly used in patients who have sustained head trauma, suffered hemorrhage in or around the brain, underwent brain surgery or any conditions in which the brain may swell and diminish the blood supply to the brain. They consist of small plastic tube passed through a hole in the skull and connected to a bedside monitor.

Internal Neurolysis

Internal neurolysis involves the surgical removal of scar tissue from inside the nerve itself (between the separate nerve fibers or fascicles) and may be necessary to decompress otherwise intact fascicles and improve the chance for recovery of nerve function.