Archived Videos

Laser-assisted microsurgical resection of thoracic intramedullary spinal cord ependymoma

| AANSNeurosurgery

James K. Liu, MD

Departments of Neurological Surgery and Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Center for Skull Base and Pituitary Surgery, Neurological Institute of New Jersey, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, New Jersey

The surgical management of intramedullary spinal cord ependymomas remains a formidable challenge amongst neurosurgeons because of the potential risk of surgical morbidity. In this operative video manuscript, the author demonstrates an illustrative step-by-step technique for microsurgical resection of a thoracic intramedullary spinal cord ependymoma (T-3 to T-5) associated with an extensive cervicothoracic syrinx. The application of a handheld non-contact CO2 laser for performing the midline myelotomy is also highlighted. The operative technique and surgical nuances, including the surgical approach, intradural tumor removal, and closure are illustrated in this video atlas.

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