MD Anderson Performs First MRI-Guided Brain Biopsy Using ClearPoint(R) System
Procedure Represents Newest Use of MRI Interventions' Next-Generation Technology
MEMPHIS, Tenn., June 5, 2012 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- MRI Interventions, Inc. (OTCBB:MRIC) today announced that the first MRI-guided brain biopsy using the company's ClearPoint(R) System has been performed at MD Anderson in Houston, Texas by neurosurgeon Dr. Ashwin Viswanathan, working with Dr. Sujit Prabhu. The MRI-guided brain biopsy represents the newest use of the ClearPoint System, which has already been successfully used by neurosurgeons in the United States for the insertion of electrodes and catheters in the brain.
MRI Interventions' ClearPoint System is an integrated system of reusable components, disposable components and intuitive, menu-driven software. It provides guidance for the placement and operation of instruments during neurological procedures performed within the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) environment. Using the ClearPoint system, a physician sees and selects a neurological target, aims MRI Interventions' targeting device, and watches via MRI as the surgical instrument is advanced to the target. The ClearPoint system is intended to be used as an integral part of procedures, such as biopsies and catheter and electrode insertions, which have traditionally been performed using stereotactic methods, and the system is designed to allow those procedures to be performed in a hospital's existing MRI suite.
"The system worked well," said Dr. Prabhu. "The clear advantage is confirming the position of the needle tip prior to a biopsy and also identifying a safe trajectory to the lesion."
The biopsy needle used in the procedure at MD Anderson was a brain biopsy needle manufactured by Ad-Tech Medical Instrument Corporation.