FAQs - Frequently asked questions

What is minimally invasive neurosurgery?

Minimal invasiveness is a concept of modern neurosurgery and describes a basic goal: achieving the best surgical outcome in the most reliable and gentle way. The term covers a range treatment strategies. The main objective is to treat each disease and thus each patient individually.

How can minimal invasiveness be achieved in neurosurgery?

The prerequisite for minimally invasive surgery is using the most modern techniques for the planning and implementation. With modern radiological diagnostics, even tiny details in the interior of the skull can be examined in detail. Even before the operation, the surgeon “looks” into the depths of the brain and is thus able to optimally plan the surgical procedure. This planning is critical in minimising the surgical stress and achieving the best possible surgical results.

What is keyhole neurosurgery?

The goal of minimally invasive therapy is to achieve maximum surgical success while minimising surgery-related stress. Therefore, in modern neurosurgery, tiny “keyhole” incisions are often employed. The precise procedure of the surgeon is supported by a surgical microscope and sophisticated technology. Special lens optics ensure optimum illumination in the depths of the brain. Using endoscopes, hard-to-view regions in the working area can be accurately assessed, thereby providing insight into all vital structures. Computed tomography in the operating room, modern ultrasound devices, neuronavigation, and neuro-monitoring help to achieve the goal of minimal invasiveness during the procedure.

What is the significance of endoscopy in neurosurgery?

Endoscopes are special optical systems used for viewing and illuminating the surgical site. In many cases, operations can be performed implementing a purely endoscopic technique.

When and why is intra-operative imaging used?

Intra-operative CT or MRI is used in tumour operations in order to be able to monitor the resection during the operation. This is of great importance. Because a complete removal of the tumour demonstrably prolongs the progression-free survival time, our goal is to safely and gently achieve maximum radicality.

Can minimally invasive techniques also be used to treat my illness?

These techniques may essentially be used to treat any neurosurgical disease. If you have any questions, you can reach us by phone or in person at the Centre for Endoscopic and Minimally Invasive Neurosurgery at the Hirslanden Clinic.