Neuronavigation for the resection of cavernous angiomas

Objective To introduce the use of the StealthStation neuronavigator combine d with preoperative computerized tomography (CT) in resection of intracrani al cavernous angiomas (CAs). Methods The StealthStation neuronavigator was used to provide a realtime co rrelation of the operating field and the computerized images in 6 patients with CAs. All patients suffered from epileptic seizures. Four patients unde rwent keyhole surgery and 2 underwent small skin-flap craniotomy. The mean follow-up was 4.5 months. Results With the guidance of neuronavigator, lesionectomy associated with r emoval of hemosiderin deposition, gliosis and calcification was performed p recisely. The mean fiducial error was from 1.65 mm to 4.53 mm, the predicte d accuracy at 10 cm was between 1.82 mm and 3.28 mm, and the sustained accu racy ranged from 0.50 mm to 3.45 mm. Conclusion The StealthStation neuronavigator is reliable and accurate in th e resection of CAs.