intraoperative ultrasound
Also written as: IOUS — intraoperative ultrasound
Real-time ultrasound imaging used during brain surgery to guide tumor resection and assess completeness.
Full Definition
Intraoperative ultrasound (IOUS) is a real-time imaging technology used during neurosurgical procedures to visualize brain anatomy, locate tumors, and guide surgical resection. This technique provides surgeons with continuous, dynamic imaging that adapts to brain shift and tissue changes that occur during surgery, something preoperative imaging cannot account for. The ultrasound probe is placed directly on the brain surface or within the surgical cavity, offering high-resolution images of deep structures and tumor margins. IOUS is particularly valuable for distinguishing tumor tissue from normal brain, identifying residual tumor, and avoiding critical structures such as blood vessels and eloquent brain areas.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as IOUS; distinguish from other intraoperative imaging modalities like iMRI.
In Context
- "Intraoperative ultrasound confirmed complete tumor resection with clear margins." — operative report
- "IOUS guidance helped identify the tumor-brain interface during resection." — procedure note