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Interstitial laser thermotherapy in neurosurgery: A review

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Summary

One of the most recent laser treatment modalities in neurosurgery is interstitial laser thermotherapy (ILTT). In this review, experimental and clinical studies concerning intracranial ILTT are discussed. Two methods for intra-operative control of the laser induced lesions are described; i.e., computer-controlled power delivery, using a thermocouple that is positioned interstitially at the periphery of the tumour to maintain the desired temperature at that point, and MRI, to visualise the extent of the thermal lesions induced by ILTT. The results show that ILTT using a Nd:YAG laser is easy and relatively effective in the treatment of small deepseated brain tumours with minimal risk and complications. This review is concluded with suggestions for further improvement of this treatment modality.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Laser Centre, University of Amsterdam, Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands

    T. Menovsky, J. F. Beek & M. J. C. van Gemert

  2. Department of Neurosurgery, C. H. Sainte-Anne, Paris, France

    F. X. Roux

  3. National Medical Laser Centre, The Rayne Institute, London, UK

    S. G. Bown

Authors
  1. T. Menovsky
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  2. J. F. Beek
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  3. M. J. C. van Gemert
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  4. F. X. Roux
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  5. S. G. Bown
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Menovsky, T., Beek, J.F., van Gemert, M.J.C. et al. Interstitial laser thermotherapy in neurosurgery: A review. Acta neurochir 138, 1019–1026 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01412303

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