Laser ablation

What is laser ablation?

It is a relatively new surgical technique that is performed in few centers due to its complexity. It is a less invasive and safer procedure than traditional surgery.

In addition, the patient’s recovery process is faster and can even return home 24-48 hours after the intervention.

What does it consist of?

This technique is mainly used for the destruction of hematomas or small tumors located deep in the brain.

Procedure

  1. The patient is sedated before entering the operating room. Once there, the neurosurgery team receives the patient and makes an incision in the skull to introduce a laser probe.
  2. The patient is transferred to a room where an MRI is performed.
  3. In the meantime, the probe is placed in the area of the lesion and heat is applied until it is destroyed. As heat is applied to the area, the tissues begin to grow until the soft tissue is destroyed. Through the resonance the equipment can control that only the tumor cells are destroyed, avoiding bleeding and complications.

Main advantages over traditional surgery

  • Minimally invasive technique, which simplifies the postoperative recovery period.
  • Less likelihood of complications derived from open procedures.
  • Radiation is only generated through the heat of the ablation, which avoids the appearance of new tumors.
  • The probe can reach areas of the brain that are difficult to access.