Robotic application in epilepsy surgery

摘要

BACKGROUND: Epilepsy surgery is cost-effective and dependent on patient selection, localization and meticulous technique. We report the use of a new robotic system in this surgery for the first time. METHODS: The brain is imaged for both image guidance and robotic application. The robot uses CT-visible reflective fiducials. Registration is performed by image-guided surgery (IGS) system and the robot. The robot is used to insert depth electrodes for intra-operative epileptic focus localization and to localize the temporal horn. RESULTS: This technique was used in three patients; the catheter tip was found in the temporal horn in all cases and saved considerable operating time compared to previous experience. CONCLUSION: It is therefore feasible to use the robot to localize the temporal horn and place depth electrodes during epilepsy surgery with greater precision and consistency and potential time savings.