INTRAOPERATIVE MRI SYSTEM
Sets a New Standard for Neurosurgery
A breakthrough in magnetic resonance imaging technology is taking neurosurgery to a whole new level at Saint Joseph's Hospital in Marshfield.

The Hospital recently acquired the Polestar N-10 Intraoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging (iMRI) system - the only one in Wisconsin and one of only two in the Midwest. The system in effect gives neurosurgeons another set of eyes in the operating room.

"This state-of-the-art iMRI system allows neurosurgeons to take MRI scans in a standard operating room, and provides near real-time images during all stages of the actual surgery," said Dr. John Neal, Marshfield Clinic neurosurgeon on staff at Saint Joseph's Hospital. "This ready access to intraoperative images greatly enhances the ease and precision of the surgery to assure that we preserve the vital parts of the brain while resecting the brain tumor. It inherently makes surgery safer for patients as well as makes it possible for patients to return to their normal lifestyle sooner."

Recent clinical studies have demonstrated that the use of the iMRI improved the surgical result in more than 50 percent of patients undergoing transsphenoidal surgery and craniotomy. A neurological procedure done with the iMRI-guided technique had a lower complication rate and had a lower post surgical tumor re-occurrence rate.

"The technology of the intraoperative MRI is different yet similar to the diagnostic MRI used in traditional imaging suites," said Dr. Kevin Ruggles, Neurologist and Neuroscience Medical Director at the Hospital. "It uses the same methodology to achieve the visualization of the anatomical sites that is the use of magnetic resonance, with a smaller, less powerful magnet. The size and design allow this iMRI to be used safely in a clinical area."

It's the machine's size and versatility that are the main difference. The PoleStar N-10 is designed for use in a standard operating room, without affecting the operating room routine. It is a compact open magnet system that can be wheeled to the patient table during surgery and with the push of a button, lifted into position when surgeons need to obtain detailed images of the brain. Images can be acquired with various contrasts to accurately identify normal brain tissue from abnormal tissue. A laser pointer light is used to mark the center of the pathology. Using a hand-held remote, the system is raised to align the light with the center of the magnet. When not in use, the iMRI is stored in a 7-by-7-foot garage in the OR.

Five Marshfield Clinic neurosurgeons on staff at Saint Joseph's Hospital will perform the neurosurgical cases that require the use of the iMRI.

"These neurosurgeons are highly skilled physicians who have demonstrated continued commitment in bringing the best of services and technology to our patients," said Terri Richards, Hospital Executive Vice President. "It is this same group of neurosurgeons who have successfully performed more than 100 gamma knife procedures and are key players in the provision of excellent neurosurgical care to our trauma patients."

"We believe the addition of the iMRI to our comprehensive neuroscience program in Marshfield will enhance patient care and the overall depth of services offered," said Richards. "We are committed to bringing the best of services and technology to our patients, who would otherwise not have access to this kind of expertise and equipment. The intraoperative MRI is not only about technology, but it is about enhanced quality of life for patients who are in need."