Dual-Use Intraoperative MRI in Glioblastoma Surgery: Results of Resection, Histopathologic Assessment, and Surgical Site Infections.

Background:  To achieve maximal resection in glioblastoma (GBM) surgery, intraoperative imaging is important. An intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) suite used for both diagnostic and intraoperative imaging is considered being a reasonable concept for modern hospital management. It is still discussed if the dual use increases the risk of surgical site infections (SSI). This article assesses the rate of gross total resection (GTR), extent of resection (EOR), and histopathology after iMRI-guided resections in patients with GBM. The rate of surgical site infections (SSIs) is evaluated.

Methods:  In all, 79 patients with GBM were operated on with iMRI. Additional resection was performed if iMRI depicted contrast enhancing tissue suggestive of residual tumor. GTR and EOR were determined by segmentation and volumetric analysis of the MR images. SSIs and the role of intravenous only or intravenous plus intrathecal antibiotics were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed to detect the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of iMRI-guided extended resections. Pearson's two-tailed chi-square test was performed to evaluate the rates of GTR and variables associated with SSI.

Results:  GTR was achieved in 59 patients (74.68%). Rate of GTR was 35.44% before iMRI and additional resections ( < 0.0001). Mean EOR was 96.27%. Positive predictive value for tumor cells in the additionally resected tissue was 88.6%, negative predictive value was 100%, sensitivity was 100%, and specificity was 70. 6%. Rate of SSIs was 5.06% ( = 4). Two superficial SSIs, one subdural empyema and one cerebritis, were seen. SSI rates with parenteral only and additional intrathecal antibiotics were 0% and 8%, respectively ( = 0.133).

Conclusion:  Increase of extent of tumor resection using iMRI is evident. SSI rate is within the normal range of neurosurgical procedures. A dual-use iMRI suite is a safe concept.