Neurosurgeons at the Walton Centre in Liverpool recently carried out two stereo-electro-encephalography (SEEG) procedures with the assistance of a Renishaw Neuromate stereotactic robot.

SEEG is a procedure used in the treatment of epilepsy. Multiple electrodes are inserted into the brain to gather data and map brain activity, helping neurosurgeons to identify the region responsible for generating epileptic seizures. They can then remove the problematic tissue.

Consultant neurosurgeons Paul Eldridge and Jibril Osman-Farah estimate that the use of the Neuromate robot will reduce procedure times significantly.

Professor Eldridge said: “Accurate targeting by multiple electrodes is essential to understand the location of the epileptic focus, prior to consideration of its excision or ablation.

“Since there are multiple electrode trajectories to be both planned and executed, it is highly suited to a robotic system fulfilling the requirement for a repetitive stereotyped activity. Without the robot, it would be impractical.”

The Walton Centre is now one of a growing number of hospitals world-wide benefitting from improved accuracy and reduced procedure times by working with the Neuromate robot.

Stuart Campbell, clinical sales development manager at Renishaw (www.renishaw.com), said: “The time saved during this latest procedure is a great result for the neurosurgeons and for the patient.

“We look forward to working closely with the team so that patients can continue to benefit from this innovative technology.”