Fluorescence-guided surgery for glioblastoma multiforme using high-dose fluorescein sodium with excitation and barrier filters

We have developed a technique of fluorescence-guided surgery using high-dose fluorescein sodium (20 mg/kg) with excitation and barrier filters for glioblastoma multiforme surgery. This technique was used in 10 patients, with surgery proceeding as expected in all patients. There were no complications or permanent side effects. This method uses filters to help distinguish between the usually invisible tumor and the brain surface, as well as allowing a detailed assessment of the positional relationships with tumor vessels and the surrounding normal vessels. As sufficient yellow staining was present even without filters, delicate microsurgery was also possible under a normal white-light microscope. Both environments could be used as necessary during surgery according to the requirements of resection, thereby improving the reliability and safety of surgery.