P.094 Incorporating Navigated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (nTMS) into the neurosurgical practice: oncological, vascular and research potentials

Abstract

Background: Surgical managment of eloquent lesions in the brain require a multidisciplinary approach. Radiographic imaging, such as magnetic resosnance, can provide details of “normal” anatomy however are limited when lesions can distort/displace due to mass effect or neuroplasticity. Functional MRI (fMRI) has limitations due to patient dependent actions can often be limited due oncological or vascular lesions but known to still be near or involving “eloquent” cortex. Navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (nTMS) provides the physician with the ability to accurately (~2mm error) stimulate cortex of the brain, in a clinical setting, and to understand function of areas of motor and language and incorporate this information into the surgical theatre. Methods: We will present a personal expierience of complex oncological and vascular cases to illustrate how nTMS can assist in the determination of surgical approaches and educating patients of potential morbidities. Will also review potential research opportunities that nTMS provides. Details of Phase 2 clinical trial of nTMS for improving neuro-cognitive outcomes will be discussed. Results: Case ilustrations will be provided. Preliminary results of Phase 2 clinical study will be discussed. Conclusions: Navigated TMS provides another tool in the armamentarium of neurosurgeons to better manage and approach complex and eloquent lesions in the brain.