Intraoperative Computed Tomography for Complex Craniocervical Operations and Spinal Tumor Resections

OBJECTIVE: To improve intraoperative observation of unexposed anatomic features and to verify surgical correction, a mobile computed tomographic (CT) scanner has been introduced into the operating room. To date, intraoperative CT scanning has been used predominantly for intracranial procedures. We report on the expanded use of intraoperative CT scanning for spinal surgery, because CT scanning provides excellent observation of osseous pathological features. We report on our first 17 cases, which involved complex craniocervical operations and spinal tumor resections. METHODS: The Tomoscan M CT scanner (Philips Medical Systems, Eindhoven, The Netherlands) is mobile and consists of a translatable gantry, a translatable table, and an operator's workstation. In the operating room, the patient is placed on the CT table and prepared in the usual manner. The aperture of the gantry is covered with sterile plastic drapes. The gantry is docked to the table for intraoperative CT scanning as needed for navigation and verification during surgery. Each series of scans requires approximately 15 to 20 minutes. RESULTS: Our initial experience with neurosurgical spinal cases demonstrated that the use of intraoperative CT scanning changed the course of surgery in 6 of 17 cases. CT scanning was beneficial in facilitating adequate ventral clival and craniocervical decompressions, promoting more complete tumor resections, and verifying correct graft and instrument placement before surgical closing. Other settings in which we have found the mobile CT scanner useful include the neurointerventional suite and the intensive care unit; it is also useful for radiotherapy planning. CONCLUSION: On the basis of findings for our first 17 spinal surgery cases, we conclude that intraoperative CT scanning of the spine is both feasible and beneficial for select complex spinal procedures from the craniocervical junction to the sacrum.