Pallidal targeting with the COMPASS system.
The authors describe their initial experience with the new pallidotomy targeting software for the COMPASS system. As COMPASS permits window and contrast settings to be changed at any time, multiple imaging modalities can be employed for targeting. This feature allowed the incorporation of fast-spin echo/inversion recovery (FSE/IR) magnetic resonance images (MRI) into the planning protocol. COMPASS has now been employed for 33 consecutive pallidotomies over the last year (July 96-June 97). A statistically significant reduction in the number of microelectrode recording trajectories required to physiologically localize sensorimotor globus pallidus interna (GPi) is noted in these cases as compared to the 41 cases performed in the previous year with a different computer planning system. The authors conclude that the COMPASS system accurately and efficiently targets the internal pallidum when FSE/IR MRI is employed. Nevertheless, pallidotomy should not be performed without neurophysiological localization.
Department of Neurosurgery, NYU School of Medicine, New York University Center, USA. roalte@pahosp.com
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Alterman
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Kall
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Beric
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Sterio
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Kelly
D001931:Brain Mapping; D005917:Globus Pallidus / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000295:instrumentation*; D010300:Parkinson Disease / Q000601:surgery*; D012984:Software; D013238:Stereotaxic Techniques; D013813:Therapy, Computer-Assisted