Name of the Procedure:

Ultrasonic Guidance, Intraoperative (Intraoperative Ultrasound, IOUS)

Summary

Ultrasonic guidance, intraoperative, is a technique where ultrasound imaging is used during surgery to provide real-time visualization. This helps surgeons better locate and navigate around structures within the body, such as tumors, blood vessels, or organs.

Purpose

This procedure is used to enhance surgical precision, increase the success rate of the surgery, and reduce the risk of complications. It helps surgeons identify the exact location and size of abnormal growths, guide biopsies, and ensure complete removal of target tissues.

Indications

• Tumor resection
• Biopsy guidance
• Vascular surgery
• Organ transplantation
• Minimally invasive surgeries
• Real-time confirmation of surgical targets

Preparation

• Follow fasting instructions, typically no food or drink for 6-8 hours before surgery.
• Inform your doctor of all medications and supplements; adjustments may be needed.
• Complete any required diagnostic tests, such as blood work or MRI scans.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
2. The surgeon makes the necessary incisions to access the surgical site.
3. An ultrasound probe is used to send high-frequency sound waves into the body, which creates real-time images of internal structures.
4. The images are displayed on a monitor, assisting the surgeon with navigation and targeting.
5. The surgeon performs the required surgical procedure, using the ultrasound images to guide movements.
6. After completing the surgery, the incisions are closed and bandaged.

Duration

- Typically ranges from 1 to 4 hours, depending on the complexity of the surgery.

Setting

- Performed in an operating room within a hospital or surgical center.

Personnel

- Surgeons - Anesthesiologists - Surgical nurses - Ultrasound technologists

Risks and Complications

- Common: Mild discomfort or bruising around the incision site, temporary swelling or redness. - Rare: Infection, bleeding, damage to surrounding tissues or organs, allergic reaction to anesthesia.

Benefits

- Enhanced surgical accuracy and outcomes. - Minimally invasive approach with faster recovery times. - Reduced risk of complications due to precise targeting.

Recovery

- Post-procedure, patients are monitored in the recovery room. - Pain management includes prescribed medications. - Patients can typically resume normal activities in 1-2 weeks, but must follow specific post-operative instructions. - Follow-up appointments to monitor healing and results.

Alternatives

- CT-guided surgery: Provides detailed images but involves radiation exposure. - MRI-guided surgery: Offers high-resolution images but may be less available and more expensive. - Conventional surgery: Can be effective but may not offer the same level of precision.

Patient Experience

- During the procedure, patients are under anesthesia and will not feel any pain. - Post-procedure, patients may experience mild pain and discomfort at the incision site, managed with medication. - Full recovery typically occurs within weeks, with most returning to daily activities in a shorter time span.