Introduction: Magnetic Resonance Guided Laser Induced Thermal Therapy (MRgLITT) has been progressing to successfully treat a large and expanding number of neurosurgical conditions including pathologies such as epilepsy. We report our single-center experience in 20 patients with epilepsy using the Visualase Thermal Therapy System.
Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed of all patients with epilepsy undergoing MRgLITT from 2011 to 2015. Laser catheters were stereotactically placed and ablation was performed in the MRI suite. Demographics, operative parameters, and hospital stay were recorded. Analysis also included review for any complications or readmissions following the procedure.
Results: 21 lasers were placed in 20 patients requiring intervention for epilepsy after other means of treatment had been exhausted. 100% of patients completed the procedure. Total procedural time was 150±25.8 min and laser on-time was 6.1±3.2 min. Average ICU and hospital stay were 0.7 and 1.1 days, respectively, and the median stay for both ICU and hospital was 1 day. All patients were discharged home following procedure, none requiring discharge to rehabilitation facilities. There was a 0% complication rate. The 30-day readmission rate was 0%.
Conclusions: MRgLITT is a minimally invasive, safe procedure that can be used for the treatment of epilepsy. Our single center experience yielded no complications or readmissions secondary to the procedure and most patients were stable for discharge within 24 hours. MRgLITT’s therapeutic role in epilepsy will require further, more extensive studies.
Patient Care: We hope to show MRgLITT as a potential alternative option for epilepsy that is safe and minimally invasive.
Learning Objectives: By the conclusion of this session, participants should be able to:
1) Understand the safety profile of MRgLITT in patients with epilepsy
2) Recognize MRgLITT as a potential treatment option for epilepsy