The Gamma Ray Knife and Other Specialized Procedures

Hello again!

Well, we are making good progress with our new neurology blog. You may notice we added some valuable links to the site (right) which we hope will provide all of you with the latest information available relating to neurosurgical technologies, services and other related news.

Did you know ....?

Barnes-Jewish Hospital has four dedicated neurosurgery operating rooms equipped to perform any neurological surgical procedures including multiple trauma. The hospital’s 20-bed neuro-intensive care unit (NICU) is one of the largest and most sophisticated in the United States, ensuring that after surgery, patients are cared for by specialized physicians, nurses and other staff. The NICU has computerized radiograph viewing and an in-unit positron emission tomography (PET) scanner --a state-of-the art brain imaging technique invented and developed at Washington University. In conjunction with Washington University neurologists and neuroradiologists, surgeons treat the full range of neurovascular disorders.

Among the specialized procedures offered by BJH/WUSM neurosurgeons is the Gamma Knife, a revolutionary new treatment for certain types of brain tumors and other abnormalities within the brain.

Barnes-Jewish Hospital is the only facility with this technology within 250 miles of St. Louis. For patients whose age or other medical conditions make neurosurgery dangerous or not an option, the Gamma Knife can be a life-saving procedure.

Other specialized procedures include:

Stereotactic Neurosurgery -- computer-assisted guidance in brain surgery that allows the placement of biopsy tools or electrodes deep in the brain

Surgical Navigation -- use of computers to plan precise approaches to areas of the brain during surgery

Cavitron -- surgical device that disintegrates and aspirates brain tumors

Intraoperative Angiography -- use of blood vessel x-rays during surgery to enhance outcomes for aneurysms or arteriovenous malformation surgery

Movement Disorder Surgery -- surgical implantation of stimulators to treat Parkinson’s Disease and certain types of tremor

Cortical mapping EE -- provides the surgeon with information on where essential functions are located in the brain, so the surgeon will avoid cutting through these areas; identifies the area of the brain causing seizures

In addition, neurosurgeons are consistently refining surgical techniques to treat epilepsy, brain tumors, and a combined endovascular/neurosurgical treatment of aneurysms.

The world's first magnetic surgery was conducted at BJH. The surgical technique, known as the Magnetic Surgery System (MSS), promises less invasive techniques for finding and removing brain tumors, while avoiding adjacent structures and tissues.

Neurosurgery isn't just about head injuries and brain tumours these days. It is a specialty that is at the forefront of biomedical and technological developments. Modern neurosurgery combines clinical acumen, surgical judgement and technical expertise.

If you choose neurosurgery you will be part of a specialty that takes advantage of advances in microsurgery, non-invasive imaging, neuro-anaesthesia, neuro-intensive care and image-guided surgery. Be a part of the future in medicine. Become a part of changing and widening the scope of neurosurgical practice.

And, drop us a comment or two. We would be very happy to hear from you.

Post at you later!