Operation

At ISCOMS 2024, viewers witnessed a neurosurgical procedure by neurosurgeon prof. Marc van Dijk, neurophysiologist Gea Drost, and anesthesiologist Marko Sahinovic. Through surgical footage, the audience gained insight into the complex nuances of vestibular schwannoma removal and the important role of multidisciplinary teamwork in preserving neural integrity. 

In the realm of ‘Future Medicine’, advancements in surgical techniques and interdisciplinary collaboration continue to change the landscape of patient care. Vestibular schwannomas, although relatively rare, affect approximately 320 patients in the Netherlands. These tumors arise from the Schwann cells of the vestibulocochlear nerve. Common symptoms include unilateral hearing loss, tinnitus, and imbalance, often manifesting gradually over time. Early detection and intervention are crucial in reducing the impact of these tumors on patients’ auditory and vestibular function.

The removal of a vestibular schwannoma requires careful planning and precise execution to achieve optimal outcomes while minimizing risks. Preservation of neural structures is of great importance, guided by intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring. Despite risks like hearing loss and facial nerve palsy, successful surgery offers profound rewards, including symptom relief and improved quality of life. Timely intervention prevents further neurological compromise. Interdisciplinary collaboration and advanced surgical techniques ensure the best possible outcomes. Through real-time feedback provided by IONM, the surgeon can navigate critical structures with heightened precision, mitigating the risk of postoperative deficits.

This surgery showed how different medical experts work together using advanced techniques while keeping an eye on the patient during the operation. It’s all about making sure patients get the best results possible and how the future of medicine keeps improving.