Neurosurgery
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Intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (IoMRI) is used to improve the extent of resection of brain tumors. Most previous studies evaluating the utility of IoMRI have focused on enhancing tumors. ⋯ IoMRI enhances the extent of resection, particularly for nonenhancing gliomas.
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Safe resection of intramedullary spinal cord tumors can be challenging, because they often alter the cord anatomy. Identification of neurophysiologically viable dorsal columns (DCs) and of neurophysiologically inert tissue, eg, median raphe (MR), as a safe incision site is crucial for avoiding postoperative neurological deficits. We present our experience with and improvements made to our previously described technique of DC mapping, successfully applied in a series of 12 cases. ⋯ Our revised technique is safe and reliable, and it can be easily incorporated into routine intramedullary spinal cord tumor resection. It provides crucial information to the neurosurgeon to prevent postoperative neurological deficits.