Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery

Book excerpt: Recognized clinical leaders in neurosurgery and neuroradiology review the cutting-edge techniques and technologies now available and describe how minimally invasive techniques have influenced their subspecialties. On the radiology side, the authors explain the latest developments in magnetic resonance spectroscopy, functional imaging, and brain mapping, with emphasis on the application of image navigation directly in the operating room, using both preoperative and intraoperative systems. On the surgical side, some of the world's leading surgeons in pediatric neurosurgery, cerebrovascular surgery, neurosurgical oncology, spinal and peripheral nerve surgery, and trauma surgery detail how they use the powerful new minimally invasive techniques in the own practices. Among the novel approaches discussed are radiofrequency, radiosurgery, thermal therapy, and minimally invasive techniques that allow "molecular neurosurgery" via gene and viral vectors and local delivery systems.