Minimizing Brain Shift during Functional Neurosurgical Procedures – A Simple Burr Hole Technique that can Decrease CSF Loss and Intracranial Air

Abstract

This new and simple burr hole technique was associated with a significant reduction in postoperative intracranial air. Reduction of intracranial air will ultimately reduce brain shift. That total operation time does not influence intracranial air is discussed as well as the limitations of this pilot series. In the authors' opinion, this straightforward and cost-effective technique has the potential to reduce brain shift and to increase DBS placement accuracy during functional stereotactic neurosurgical procedures performed in the seated or half-sitting position. A larger more standardized patient series is necessary to substantiate the findings.