Neurosurgical Technology

Robotic stereotactic assistance brain surgery

ROSA, or robotic stereotactic assistance, is a robot like-device, which neurosurgeons at OHSU use to place electrodes in the brain to treat epilepsy. The procedure provides precise GPS-like imagery to guide placement of needle-like electrodes inside the brain. OHSU is the only hospital in Oregon that provides this technology to treat epilepsy.

Most advanced medical imaging

Intraoperative MRI (iMRI)

OHSU Doernbecher has the first pediatric intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) facility on the West Coast. The Doernbecher intraoperative MRI, or iMRI for short, uses a 3-Tesla magnet, which is incredibly powerful, to generate high-resolution images right in the operating room. The 10-ton unit glides from an adjacent room on industrial-strength rails, then retracts when the scan is finished. Bringing the MRI into the operating room means surgeons do not need to move delicate pediatric patients in and out of the operating room during surgery.

Intraoperative computed tomography (iCT)

This new technique uses advanced medical imaging to improve the accuracy and safety of placement of electrodes in the brain (e.g. deep brain stimulation). Patients do not need to be awake during this surgery. An MRI of the patient’s brain is obtained before surgery and during surgery a CT scan provides improved clarity for surgeons to place electrodes.

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.

Advanced Imaging Research Center (AIRC) 

The AIRC is home to five research dedicated MR Instruments. These sophisticated machines support novel research investigating normal physiology, brain development and aging, and disease pathophysiology with high-performance non-invasive imaging capabilities. Learn about the AIRC.

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.

Telemedicine Network: Partnering with InTouch Health®'s state-of-the-art technology.

The OHSU Telemedicine Network has launched and is working towards bringing access to stroke neurologists, 24/7, to patients in community hospitals throughout the state of Oregon. Through this network, physicians at participating hospitals will be able to consult with stroke specialists to help diagnose and collaborate in development of treatment plans for their patients.