Surgical Technology

Digital patient data

Electronic medical records
OHSU uses the EpicCare electronic medical record (EMR) system, and is effectively paperless.
The EpicCare system provides ease and completeness of both the documentation process, and billing for services.

Medical imaging
Picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) are computers or networks dedicated to the storage, retrieval, distribution and presentation of images. This technology allows physicians to view realtime, picture-quality images, such as magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, positron emission tomography (PET) as efficiently as is possible.

Intraoperative Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMR imaging) is standard neurological surgery procedure at OHSU. In 2002, Oregon Health & Science University neurosurgeons were among the first in the United States to use a new intraoperative imaging device. Neurosurgeons have access to a MR imaging suite and small semi-portable MR imaging intraoperative device. The ODIN Intraoperative MR Imaging Device- PoleStar N-10 system can provide images of the brain before, during and after surgery. This allows the surgeon to better plan their approach, evaluate their progress during surgery, and verify results.
With this intraoperative MRI device, gone is the need for a technician in another room to operate the imager; the neurosurgeon operates the device with an infrared remote control. Magnets rise into position and obtain detailed images of the brain; magnets can then be lowered to facilitate surgery. Magnetic fields are lower and many conventional surgical instruments and equipment can still be used. The intraoperative system is compact and mounts to a standard operating room table. When not in use, it can be stored, freeing up operating room space for conventional neurosurgical procedures. While modifications to the neurosurgical operating room were extensive, the benefits are nearly realtime, picture-quality images, several different kinds of MR images, enhanced operative safety, improved accuracy and reduced hospital costs.

Stereotactic Computer Assisted Neurosurgery

Stereotactic, is a term used to describe a procedure performed in precise and defined three-dimensional (3D) space using a computer system. The ability to perform computer assisted neurosurgery allows for maximal precision in planning and performance of minimally invasive surgical interventions for movement disorders, epilepsy, brain tumors and other intracranial disorders. The Department of Neurological Surgery has pioneered the use of stereotactic neurosurgery and computer technology, and is in international training site for neurosurgeons interested in this new technology.