Micropatties Are Indispensable Instruments for Successful Microneurosurgery: Technical Note.

Abstract

Neurosurgical micropatties (also known as sponges or cottonoids) have been used in microsurgical procedures to protect the brain surface and aspirate cerebrospinal fluid and blood. We sought to describe unique applications of micropatties in neurosurgical interventions. Various sizes of micropatties have been used in neurosurgical interventions including tumor, vascular, and skull base surgeries to enhance safe surgical procedures and clear the operative field. Their roles are divided into 3 types: tissue protectors, instrument assistants, and instruments in the microsurgical procedures. Appropriate use of micropatties provides a well-visualized operative field, easy identification of bleeding spots, effective tumor elevation from the cleavage layer, and precise procedures around critical structures. To achieve safe and successful neurovascular protective surgery, micropatties play an important role in any type of microsurgical procedure in their various applications.