Effect of training on navigated frameless and frame-based stereotactic brain biopsies: a retrospective comparison of staff neurosurgeon and trainee perioperative performance and complications - Report - MDSpire

Effect of training on navigated frameless and frame-based stereotactic brain biopsies: a retrospective comparison of staff neurosurgeon and trainee perioperative performance and complications

  • By

  • H. Joswig

  • S. H. Nestle

  • J. M. Funk

  • S. Sultanova

  • C. Doenitz

  • T. Seyfried

  • J. Augustin

  • F. Grassmann

  • U. Träger

  • S. Blecha

  • June 12, 2026

  • 0 min

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Impact of Training on Performance and Complications in Stereotactic Brain Biopsies

Overview

This study evaluates the complication rates of brain biopsies performed by supervised residents compared to experienced neurosurgeons. The findings suggest that supervised residents can perform these procedures with comparable safety, highlighting the importance of structured training in neurosurgery.

Background

Neurosurgical training is critical for developing the skills necessary for complex procedures such as brain biopsies, which are essential for diagnosing tumors and inflammatory conditions. With increasing restrictions on resident work hours, understanding the safety of resident-performed surgeries is vital for patient care. This study addresses the need for data on the safety of supervised residents in performing stereotactic brain biopsies.

Data Highlights

No numerical data was provided in the source material.

Key Findings

  • Complication rates for brain biopsies performed by supervised residents were comparable to those performed by experienced board-certified faculty neurosurgeons.
  • Frameless biopsies showed a complication rate range of 2.4% to 17.8%, while frame-based biopsies ranged from 5.1% to 14.2%.
  • Postoperative monitoring included CT scans to assess for intracranial hemorrhage and other complications.
  • The study involved a retrospective review of cases from two hospitals over several years, ensuring a diverse patient population.
  • Structured supervision during training can maintain patient safety while allowing residents to gain essential surgical experience.

Clinical Implications

The findings support the integration of supervised resident involvement in neurosurgical procedures, particularly brain biopsies, without compromising patient safety. This approach can enhance training opportunities while adhering to safety standards in surgical practice.

Conclusion

Supervised residents can safely perform stereotactic brain biopsies, reinforcing the value of structured training in neurosurgery. These results contribute to the ongoing discussion about the role of residents in surgical procedures amidst evolving training environments.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Evaluating the Precision of Frameless Stereotactic Brain Biopsy: A Retrospective Cohort Analysis Utilizing MRI-Only and MRI-CT Fusion Navigation, Journal of Neuro-Oncology, 2025
  2. Evaluating Frame-Based Stereotaxy in a Frameless Context: Current Functions, Comparative Significance, and Predictive Values of Blood Sampling Through the Needle, Journal of Neuro-Oncology, 2009
  3. Comparison of Robotic Arm and Stereotactic Frame Techniques in Deep Brain Stimulation Surgery for Movement Disorders: A Retrospective Analysis, Journal of Neuro-Oncology, 2025
  4. Comparative Analysis of Efficacy and Safety of Frame-Based, Frameless, and Robot-Assisted Stereotactic Brain Biopsies: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis, PubMed, 2025
  5. EANS-EANO guidelines on the extent of resection in gliomas, Neuro-Oncology, 2025
  6. Retrospective Study of 79 Consecutive Cases Utilizing the Zamorano-Duchovny System for Stereotactic Frame-Based Biopsy of Infratentorial Lesions via the Suboccipital-Transcerebellar Approach
  7. Comparative Analysis of Efficacy and Safety of Frame-Based, Frameless, and Robot-Assisted Stereotactic Brain Biopsies: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis - PubMed
  8. EANS-EANO guidelines on the extent of resection in gliomas | Neuro-Oncology | Oxford Academic
  9. The European Neurosurgical Curriculum - European Association of Neurosurgical Societies

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