title: Use of a nitrogen arm-stabilized endoscopic microdriver in neuroendoscopic surgery.
abstract: Stabilization and manipulation of instruments in endoscopic neurosurgery has traditionally been a manual task. Conventional self-retaining retractors have failed to provide reliable fixation for endoscopic procedures. Most surgeons rely on a team approach to endoscopy with one individual controlling the endoscope while the other manipulates instruments within the field of view. This two-surgeon approach is manpower intensive and not an option at many facilities. Recently developed technology provides the independent practitioner with another option. Several nitrogen-powered stabilizing arms have been introduced which decrease or eliminate problems with post-positioning drift. To facilitate fine maneuvering of the endoscope, a new positioning arm is available with an incorporated microdriver capable of sub-millimeter adjustments. We present an illustrative case of the utility of this device in selected endoscopic procedures.
authors.affiliation: Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu, HI 96734, USA. jonathan.martin@haw.tamc.amedd.army.mil
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Martin
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Neal
authors.forename: I
authors.initials: I
authors.lastname: Moores
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Ecklund
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D001927:Brain Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D003560:Cysts / Q000601:surgery*; D011211:Electric Power Supplies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D044583:Neuroendoscopy; D009584:Nitrogen; D010870:Pineal Gland / Q000601:surgery*; D012371:Robotics; D013523:Surgical Equipment
chemical_list: D009584:Nitrogen