Visualase™ laser ablation. Small incision. Big difference.
The minimally invasive alternative to open brain surgery that means less time recovering, and more time making memories.
A closer look at brain tumors
With more than 100 distinct types of brain tumors, you may experience a variety of symptoms, care options, and outcomes. Where it’s located, how fast it grows, and how much can be removed with surgery will all influence your doctor’s approach.
Visualase™ is a minimally invasive alternative to open brain surgery that’s suitable for some patients and allows for quicker recovery with less disruption to daily life.
What is laser ablation?
Visualase™ may offer new hope for patients with brain tumors. Visualase™ uses MRI imaging to guide a small catheter to the exact location of the brain tumor. This precision ensures only the problematic tissue is targeted, protecting healthy tissue nearby.
What this means compared to open brain surgery
- A shorter hospital stay1-8
- Lower risk of infection9-10
- Lower rate of complications13
- Fewer 30-day readmissions11,12
- High patient satisfaction1,11,12
- Less scaring from a small incision (4mm)
- You keep your hairstyle due to minimal shaving
As with any surgical procedure, there can be risks associated with Visualase MRI-guided Ablation. Be sure to discuss the safety and potential risks of this therapy with your doctor. A prescription is required. This therapy is not for everyone. Individual results may vary.
How it works
What you can expect
Brain surgery doesn’t have to mean a lengthy recovery period. With nearly 20 years of experience, we help you get back to what matters most – spending time with the people you love.
Preparation
Your physician will get all the precise information they need to ensure they have everything ready for your procedure.
- MRI images of the area to be ablated and “maps” where the lasers will be applied
- Precise measurement will help protect tissue from damage
Procedure
Laser ablation is typically inserted in a surgical room before the ablation is performed in an MRI under general anesthesia.
- A special frame may be attached to the scalp under anesthesia to help locate the exact target within the brain
- A small hole in the skull is made to make access easier
- The laser at the tip of a thin tube gives off heat to destroy the problem tissue. Doctors watch the temperature closely with MRI and keep it cooled using saline
- Once the area has been ablated, the catheter is removed, and the incision is closed with one or two sutures (stitches)
Recovery
You can get back to living life sooner with Visualase™, with lower infection risk9,10, shorter hospital stays1-8 and lower 30-day readmission rates11,12 than open brain surgery.
- 1-2 nights in hospital for observation
- Medication to reduce swelling if needed
- Most people begin normal activities with a week
- Complete recovery may take several weeks
- Recovery instructions will vary for each person, please consult your doctor.
Is Visualase™ right for you?
Visualase™ has already changed the lives of over 11,000 people with focal epilepsy and brain tumors. While it’s not suitable for everyone, this simple checklist can help you explore whether it might be a good fit for you. The best way to find out what’s right for your specific situation is to talk to your doctor.
Visualase™ may be an option if you:
- You have a brain tumor that’s hard to reach
- You are not a candidate for open brain surgery
- You are experiencing reoccurring tumors
You may not be eligible for Visualase™ if:
- You have medical conditions that are contraindicated for MRI
- You have implanted medical devices that are contraindicated for MRI
- Your physician has determined that laser ablation (LITT) is not acceptable
- Invasive surgical procedures in the brain are not appropriate for you
Find your nearest experienced neurosurgeon
Easily connect with neurosurgeons who perform Visualase™ laser ablation.
What to ask your doctor
We’ve put together some things to consider when talking with your physician.
