On 13 February 2013, IMRIS announced neurosurgeons at University of Tsukuba Hospital in Ibaraki, Japan, performed initial tumour removal cases using its VISIUS Surgical Theatre. The intraoperative MRI system is the only one of its kind in Japan that allows for high quality image scanning during an operation without moving the patient, according to a company release.
“We hope these first cases are examples of the improved neurosurgical outcomes we expect with our ability to scan during the procedure using the VISIUS iMRI system,” said Akira Matsumura, one of two neurosurgeons conducting the initial cases.
The VISIUS Surgical Theatre at University of Tsukuba Hospital provides a surgical environment that enhances the surgeon’s vision at critical times in the procedure and facilitates decision making and precision through image guidance technology. The theatre includes both an advanced operating room with iMRI for neurosurgery and an adjoining room for diagnostic imaging. A high-field 1.5 Tesla MR scanner moves on-demand on ceiling-mounted rails from the diagnostic room into the OR to provide intraoperative images of diagnostic quality—without introducing patient risk that would come from moving the patient. It is intended that the surgical theatre delivers real-time information while preserving optimal surgical access and techniques.
Using iMRI, the surgical team can assess if all of a tumor is removed before completing the procedure. During the Tsukuba first case, which was a low-grade glioma, an intraoperative scan found a small amount of tumour remained that was then completely removed and confirmed with a final scan. The second case was a transsphenoidal sella tumour and iMRI confirmed that initial resection was complete. Studies show that improved patient outcomes are associated with complete tumour resection.
Designed to meet each hospital’s specific clinical application needs, VISIUS Surgical Theatres can be configured to incorporate MR, CT imaging or X-ray angiography, providing true intraoperative imaging for open surgical applications with no patient transport. The breadth of open surgical applications and catheter-based treatments in IMRIS suites creates opportunities for multiple departments to collaborate on its investment and to optimise its utilisation.
