3-D In The OR -- Research Summary | Medical News and Health Information

3-D In The OR -- Research Summary

BACKGROUND: According to PubMed Health, acromegaly is a chronic metabolic disorder in which there is too much growth hormone and the body tissues gradually enlarge. Acromegaly occurs in about six of every 100,000 adults. It is caused by abnormal production of growth hormone after the skeleton and other organs finish growing.

TREATMENT: Surgery to remove the pituitary tumor causing this condition corrects the abnormal growth hormone secretion in most patients. Radiation of the pituitary gland is used for people who do not respond to the surgical treatment. However, the reduction in growth hormone levels after radiation is very slow. Pituitary surgery is successful in most patients, depending on the size of the tumor and the experience of the surgeon. Without treatment, the symptoms will get worse, and the risk of cardiovascular disease increases.

BRAIN SURGERY: Brain surgery treats problems in the brain and the structures around it through an opening (craniotomy) in the skull. An incision is made through the scalp. The incision may be made behind the hairline and in front of the ear, at the hairline near the neck, or elsewhere, based on where the problem in the brain is located. The bone is usually replaced and secured in place using small metal plates, sutures, or wires. (Source: MedlinePlus.com)

NEW HOPE: The OR room is now taking tips from movie directors. This new technology used in Hollywood movies is making brain surgery a lot easier. In this procedure, an endoscope is put through the nasal passages. Special goggles allow the neurosurgeon to see the brain in three-dimensions and interact with the image to plan the best surgical technique for each patient. The technology results in a less-invasive surgical process, using smaller incisions.
MORE>>>3-D In The OR - In Depth Doctor's Interview | Medical News and Health Information




FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:

Cathy Malloy, Surgery Coordinator
Office of Dr. John Y.K. Lee
University of Pennsylvania Health System
(215) 829-5189
Catherine.Malloy@uphs.upenn.edu


3-D In The OR -- Research Summary | Medical News and Health Information