Innovative robotics and neuro-navigation systems have significantly improved a patient’s prognosis after undergoing a series of complex surgeries to remove brain and spinal cord tumors. Dr. Chu Tan Si, head of the Neurosurgery Department at Tam Anh General Hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, successfully conducted the high-precision operations on a patient identified as K., who was diagnosed with intradural tumors, featuring a genetic risk factor for heredity.
The initial scans, utilizing a high-resolution 3 Tesla MRI, revealed the presence of three cerebral tumors and one large spinal tumor. Specifically, the intracranial tumors measured 3×3 cm, 3×2 cm, and 2×2 cm in size, respectively, while the lumbar spine tumor at vertebral levels L3-L4 measured 4×1.5 cm.
Advancing treatment through robotic assistance, the patient underwent three surgeries within a year, with the first procedure taking place in March 2023. Utilizing the Modus V Synaptive robot—the only one of its kind in Vietnam—along with the Neuro-Navigation system, the surgical team achieved a safe and accurate approach to tumor removal, minimizing impact on adjacent brain structures.
By employing the Cusa ultrasonic aspiration system, the surgical team meticulously fragmented and extracted two of the brain tumors while preserving neurological function. The next surgery, performed in September 2023, saw the removal of the remaining brain tumor within a time frame of two hours.
In late March 2024, the final surgery targeted the spinal tumor, a delicate procedure due to its proximity to critical spinal nerves. The surgery utilized the Synaptive robot and Neuro-Navigation system to delicately excise the tumor.
Post-recovery, the patient has regained functionality, able to walk, eat, and perform daily activities. Yet, preventive whole brain and spinal cord radiation therapy is required to mitigate any risk of potential floating cancer cells or recurrence. Moreover, the patient will undergo comprehensive health evaluations.
Through a biopsy, all four tumors were declared benign. Nevertheless, K.’s hereditary risk urges further molecular biological research to assess any genetic mutation risks, potentially guiding screenings and interventions for his offspring.
Key Questions and Answers:
What are the benefits of using robotics in neurosurgery?
Robotic surgery offers numerous advantages over traditional methods, including increased precision, reduced trauma to surrounding tissue, shorter recovery times, and improved outcomes for patients. The precision of robotic systems can also permit surgeons to operate on tumors that were previously considered inoperable due to their complex locations.
What are some challenges or controversies associated with robotic neurosurgery?
One of the main challenges is the high cost associated with purchasing and maintaining sophisticated robotic equipment, which may limit accessibility to patients in less affluent areas. Training of surgeons to proficiently use these systems is also a significant hurdle. Additionally, there is ongoing debate about the long-term outcomes of robotic surgery compared to traditional methods, and the necessity of robots in surgeries where human dexterity may be sufficient.
What does neuro-navigation entail?
Neuro-navigation is a technology that functions much like GPS for the brain, providing real-time guidance to surgeons during operations. This allows for more precise targeting of the pathology while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
Advantages:
– Enhanced precision: Robotic systems and neuro-navigation offer exceptional control and greater accuracy than the human hand alone.
– Reduced trauma: Minimally invasive procedures mean less collateral damage to healthy tissues.
– Improved recovery: Patients often experience quicker recovery times and less postoperative pain, leading to a better quality of life post-surgery.
– Better outcomes: Fine control may result in more complete tumor resection and potentially better long-term survival rates.
Disadvantages:
– Cost: Robotics and neuro-navigation systems are expensive investments for medical facilities, which may not be available worldwide.
– Learning curve: Surgeons must undergo extensive training to effectively use these advanced technologies.
– Technical reliability: Like all technology, there is a possibility of mechanical failure or technical issues that could compromise surgical outcomes.
Related to the topic of robotic neurosurgery, interested readers can find more information on innovations in medical technology and neurosurgery at the following link: New England Journal of Medicine.
For general information regarding robotic surgery advancements across various medical fields, one can visit the link: JAMA Network.
Please note that the links provided direct to the main domains of prestigious medical journals and databases that often cover recent advances in robotic surgeries and medical technologies. These sources are used by practitioners and researchers for keeping up-to-date with the latest developments in the field.