Abstracts

Rationale: Surgical treatment of Hypothalamic Hamartomas include both open and minimally invasive approaches, including stereotactic laser ablation (SLA). SLA is a relatively new approach in these rare lesions and only few cases reports have been reported. Here, we report our preliminary experience using real-time thermometry via Visualase laser interstitial thermal therapy for the treatment of hypothalamic hamartomas by examining neuroanatomical characteristics and longitudinal evaluation of SLA. Methods: The authors reviewed the data from a consecutive series of 15 children with HH. Retrospective analyses of the demographic, clinical, and surgical characteristics were assessed for post-operative neurological events, radiographic SLA effects on tumor size, ablative zones, and longitudinal trends. These anatomical factors were then compared against presenting features, anatomical location, and outcomes. Results: Treatment effects included a reduction in size of tumor volume at 3 months follow-up. Trends in longitudinal studies demonstrated association with presenting features, anatomical location, and outcomes. Conclusions: This is the first study examining longitudinal ablative effects on tumor architectonics after minimally invasive surgical treatment for HH.