CIMeC Research Seminar – Barbara Emanuele

30 November 2012
4pm

• Barbara Emanuele, Ph.D., University of Verona and National Institute of Neuroscience

Title: Neuropsychological assessment and intra-operative cortical mapping of visuo-spatial functions and neglect in right brain tumor patients: a case report. 

Abstract: The ultimate goal of modern partnership of Neuropsychology and Neurosurgery is to minimize the risk of post-operative neurological deficits for a better quality of life. So far, less attention has been given to the assessment and prevention of visuo-spatial disorders and neglect despite right parietal lobe tumor can cause to severe disabling problems for patients. In my talk I present how to comprehensively assess all forms of visuo-spatial functions and neglect syndrome pre- and post-operatively to better identify the most sensitive and feasible intra-operative test. The opportunity to perform resection of brain tumors in awake and cooperating patients has the advantage of identifying “eloquent” brain areas, namely the areas whose damage does not lead to neurological or functional deficits, through which neurosurgeon can access the tumor with precision and proceed to its maximum possible resection. The neuropsychological examination in awake surgery of visuo-spatial functions allow to facilitate the functional outcome for tumor patients and for their finest return home to high-level activities. I show the results of a new intra-operative method applied on a 44 years old right parietal patient. The result show the preservation of her cognitive functions and quality of life. In sum, our explorations contribute to expand the knowledge of complex and extensive neural network of spatial cognition and its neuro-anatomical bases. 

Hosted by David Melcher