Computer-Assisted Surgical Therapeutics
Computerized Surgical Navigation Systems
Loyola University Health System (Loyola) was among the first centers to use surgical navigation systems when it adopted the technology in 1992. The computer combines previously recorded MRI images and real-time images of the surgical space to track surgical instruments in three-dimensional space during the operation. It enables surgeons to plan ahead during an operation, to be safer and more efficient.
Interoperative Monitoring
Interoperative monitoring helps surgeons monitor the integrity of nerves as they remove tumors that may be adjacent to or engulfing critical cranial nerves. Electrodes connected to critical muscles and nerves give warning signals when surgeons get close to those structures. The technology has revolutionized cranial base surgery, enabling surgeons to preserve hearing and other important functions as they remove tumors.
Stereotactic Radiation
Stereotactic radiation is effective in treating malignant and benign brain tumors, skull-base tumors and other problems such as arteriovenous malformations. This delivers extremely precise doses of radiation designed to match the precise shape of the tumor while leaving adjacent brain structures unharmed. Stereotactic radiosurgery refers to a large, single dose of radiation narrowly focused on a small area, while the term stereotactic radiotherapy usually refers to smaller, precisely focused doses given over multiple treatments. Loyola has a state-of-the-art stereotactic radiotherapy system that enables physicians to more accurately treat brain, head and neck tumors, arteriovenous malformations and certain functional disorders noninvasively with shaped-beam radiosurgery. The system allows our physicians to treat brain tumors within a millimeter range and perform non-invasive brain and skull-based surgery. Loyola has one of the only shaped-beam, computer-assisted surgical therapy system within a 150-mile radius.
Location
Contact Us
For an appointment or for more information about Computer-Assisted Surgical Therapeutics, call (888) LUHS-888.