"The
operating room is a laboratory of the highest order" according
to Dr. William Halstad, one of the pioneers of surgery. In neurosurgery,
precision and accuracy is critical to good outcomes. The modern
neurosurgical operating room is equipped with the latest of technology
to allow the neurosurgeon the best chance to help the patient achieve
a good outcome. Some of the pieces of technology which are often
available in operating rooms are
- neurosurgical microscope, which
provide the neurosurgeon magnification, illumination of the surgical
field, and the ability to see in stereo (3-D) in small openings.
- frameless navigation apparatus:
by means of navigation systems based on infrared, ultrasound,
or magnetic waves, the neurosurgeon has the ability to know where
he/she is, within the brain, at any time during the surgery, within
a 1-2 mm accuracy. This improves outcomes, improves tumor
removal, shortens hospital stays, and decreases complications.
- bipolar coagulation allows the neurosurgeon
to accurately coagulate tissue between the electrically charged
tips of a forceps type of instrument, preventing the rest of the
brain from receiving the electrical current
- laser allows the surgeon to vaporize
tumor and scar tissue while causing minimal trauma to the brain
- ultrasonic aspirator allows the
surgeon to ultrasonically vibrate a tumor and suck it up, making
removal safer.
Typically, the operating personnel
will consist of the neurosurgeon, one or two scrub nurses (depending
upon the complexity of the case), a circulating nurse (who is not
scrubbed, but is crucial to obtaining any items which may
be required during surgery), and an anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist.
If the frameless navigation system is used, another person may be
present running the computer. There may also be someone operating
the laser and ultrasonic aspirator.
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