Stereo-crossed ablation guided by stereoelectroencephalography for epilepsy: comprehensive coagulations via a network of multi-electrodes

Abstract

Background: Introducing multiple different stereoelectroencephalography electrodes in a three-dimensional (3D) network to create a 3D-lesioning field or stereo-crossed radiofrequency thermocoagulation (scRF-TC) might create larger lesioning size; however, this has not been quantified to date. This study aimed to quantify the configurations essential for scRF-TC. Methods: By using polyacrylamide gel (PAG), we investigated the effect of electrode conformation (angled/parallel/multiple edges) and electrode distance of creating an electrode network. Volume, time, and temperature were analyzed quantitatively with magnetic resonance imaging, video analysis, and machine learning. A network of electrodes to the pathological left area 47 was created in a patient; the seizure outcome and coverage range were further observed. Results: After the compatibility test between the PAG and brain tissue, the sufficient distance of contacts (from different electrodes) for confluent lesioning was 7 mm with the PAG. Connection to the lesioning field could be achieved even with a different arrangement of electrodes. One contact could achieve at least six connections with different peripheral contacts. Coagulation with a network of electrodes can create more significant lesioning sizes, 1.81–2.12 times those of the classic approaches. The confluent lesioning field created by scRF-TC had a volume of 38.7 cm3; the low metabolic area was adequately covered. The representative patient was free of seizures throughout the 12-month follow up. Conclusion: Lesioning with electrodes in a network manner is practical for adequate 3D coverage. A secondary craniotomy could be potentially prevented by combining both monitoring and a large volume of lesions.