Artikel
Intraoperative imaging of microhemodynamics in peripheral nerves by contact endoscope
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Autoren
Veröffentlicht: | 13. Mai 2014 |
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Gliederung
Text
Objective: The microsurgical decompression is still the therapy of choice in most of entrapment neuropathies. However, the role of venous stasis and ischemia is still discussed controversially. With a new developed contact endoscope, we demonstrate in vivo visualization of microvessels of peripheral nerves during decompression surgery.
Method: In eleven patients suffering from entrapment neuropathies a video assisted analysis of peripheral nerves was performed. After accessing the spot of compression, high definition videos before and after decompression were recorded. Off line computer analysis for microhemodynamic parameters followed.
Results: The use of the contact endoscope caused no intra- or postoperative complications. In the off line computer assisted analysis single arterioles and veins were visualized showing significant increased blood flow after decompression. However no change in the epineural blood flow of tumor pathologies was seen.
Conclusions: This study demonstrated the successful application of a contact endoscope in peripheral nerve surgery for the first time. Our results suggest a potential role of the microcirculation for the development of symptoms in peripheral nerve entrapment neuropathies. Future studies will show if this endoscope can improve intraoperative minimal invasive diagnosis.