[Usefulness of Tablet-Type Device Usage during Neurosurgical Practice].

This study aimed to validate the usefulness of intraoperative use of a tablet-type device in neurosurgical field. This study included 80 patients who underwent direct surgery for complex brain and spinal disorders in our hospital between April 2013 and March 2015. The operated disorders included cerebral aneurysm, intracranial and spinal dural arteriovenous fistula, meningioma, and vestibular schwannoma. By using the OsiriX HD software, the DICOM data were directly transferred to a tablet-type device (Apple iPad). Alternatively, by using the OsiriX HD or Amira software, the DICOM data were loaded to create interactive three-dimensional computer graphics on a personal computer and then transferred to a tablet-type device. The device was covered with sterile, translucent packaging bag. As a result, the surgeons could use the touch screen to browse and access radiological data of the patient undergoing surgery, without needing to leave the operation field or requiring external assistance for image browsing. The incidence of postoperative infection did not increase. In conclusion, intraoperative usage of the tablet-type device was easy and useful for surgeons performing surgeries for complex brain and spinal disorders.