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POLESTAR™ SYSTEM: INTRAOPERATIVE MR IMAGE
GUIDANCE
What is MRI?
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, which is a diagnostic imaging technology that uses magnet and electromagnetic waves to produce an image of internal organs, such as the brain. MRI is most useful for soft tissue definition and allows the physician to see details in the body from any angle or view without disturbing tissue. It is traditionally used prior to surgery as a diagnostic tool.
What is intraoperative image guidance by MRI?
Intraoperative guidance by MRI allows the surgeon to scan "real-time" pictures during surgery, providing guidance and navigation, increasing accuracy and improving the effectiveness of surgical procedures in the operating room.
What is the PoleStar System?
The PoleStar is the world's first and only FDA-cleared compact MR
Imaging system. The device is specially designed for use throughout
all stages of brain surgery -- pre-operatively, intra-operatively,
and post-operatively -- right in a standard operating room. A small,
semi-portable MRI system that is positioned under the operating
room table, the PoleStar raises into position when neurosurgeons
need real-time imaging of the brain during surgery. When the device
is not in use, the magnet can be lowered for unrestricted access
to the patient.
What is the difference between the PoleStar N-10 and the PoleStar N20 systems?
The PoleStar N20 is the new generation of the PoleStar systems.
It preserves the features of the PoleStar N-10, adding an enlarged
distance between the magnets, increased field of view and improved
system ergonomics. This allows easier patient positioning, enhanced
image quality, and a wider array of clinical applications.
What are the benefits and advantages of intraoperative MR Image Guidance with the PoleStar?
The PoleStar system allows the neurosurgeon to accurately localize
the brain tumor; avoid critical structures; and visualize the margins
of surgical resection in real time -- all while eliminating the
uncertainties resulting from brain shift and the changes in the
brain throughout the surgery.
Key advantages of the PoleStar intraoperative MR Imaging System include helping to ensure the entire tumor is removed; reduce damage to healthy tissue; and obtain valuable post-operative information before the patient leaves the OR. This offers the potential of a more accurate and precise procedure, which is associated with reduced complications and a quick patient recuperation.
What is "brain shift?"
Published reports indicate that the brain's surface and tumors have a tendency to dislocate during the craniotomy. Known in the scientific community as "brain shift," this phenomenon suggests that the standard MRI scans taken prior to surgery may not provide the most accurate information available during surgery.
Is the PoleStar MRI exam painful?
Like all standard MRI scans, PoleStar imaging is non-invasive, painless and radiation safe.
Other than providing the most current information available to the neurosurgeon, will the PoleStar system change the way the surgery is performed?
No. PoleStar is designed for use in the OR and is operated by the
surgical staff. The PoleStar offers the neurosurgeon the differentiation
capabilities of MRI without restricting the freedom of the surgical
team to access the patient.
Is PoleStar cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration?
Yes, the U.S. FDA cleared PoleStar for intraoperative MR imaging and navigation.
How many PoleStar devices are installed?
There are over 30 systems installed worldwide with additional installations
pending.
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