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Intraoperative MRI at BryanLGH One of 28 in U.S.
For release: Immediately
Date: September 17, 2007
Contact: Edgar Bumanis, (402) 481-8663
LINCOLN...Neurosurgery enters a new era in brain tumor treatment this summer when physicians associated with the Louis J. Gogela Sr., MD, Neuroscience Institute begin using the state's only low field intraoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging (iMRI) system during procedures in a special surgical suite at BryanLGH Medical Center West, 2300 So. 16th St.
The new Medtronic PoleStar iMRI navigation system seamlessly integrates low-field, intraoperative MRI with computer-guided navigation for confirming brain tumor resection (removal). Having the iMRI right in the surgery suite is advantageous as it allows the neurosurgery team to take and see real-time, 3-D images before, during and after surgery without ever leaving the operating room. Neurosurgeons use these images to plan the best approach to the tumor and achieve the desired resection while avoiding damage to healthy tissue. The system adjusts for inherent brain shift and by doing so, helps to eliminate complications that traditionally can arise during resection procedures. At the completion of the operation, they can verify that they've removed the entire tumor.
"Operating on brain tumors involves a balance between the desire to remove a tumor or lesion and the avoidance of complications or injury to the brain. In many cases, the tumor may look like healthy brain tissue," said Christopher Kent, MD, neurosurgeon.
"With iMRI it's all about getting the most precise images possible to plan your surgical approach and then use images taken during surgery that give you the best data to maximize recovery and minimize harm," he said. "It is exceptional technology to have in the operating room."
For patients undergoing cranial procedures use of the iMRI will mean less invasive surgeries, faster recovery times, improved outcomes and less likelihood of return to surgery. The iMRI is used primarily for brain tumors called glioblastoma multiforme or gliomas, as well as removing pituitary tumors at the base of the brain. It is the latest technology at the Gogela Neuroscience Institute and its purchase was made possible through the BryanLGH Foundation.
The Foundation gave $1.2 million to the Gogela Neuroscience Institute specifically designated for the iMRI purchase. The gift dollars were from three endowed funds - the Mary G. & Duane T. Swanson Endowment, the R.E. Moore Endowment and the Emily J. Moore Endowment. These endowments were established many years ago through the Lincoln Hospital Association (LHA) which acted as the foundation entity for the former Lincoln General Hospital. LHA merged with the BryanLGH Foundation several years ago.
The mission of the Gogela Neuroscience Institute is to provide world-class outcomes, world-class technology, pioneering research and education to bring the most promising new therapies and surgical techniques to the region. The Institute was established in 2005 in memory of and to honor and recognize the late Louis J. Gogela Sr., MD, the first neurosurgeon in Lincoln and a recognized pioneer in the specialty. For more information call the Gogela Neuroscience Institute at 402-481-5942.
