Surgical technique for a cystic-type metastatic brain tumor: transformation to a solid-type tumor using hydrofiber dressing

BackgroundMany metastatic brain tumors have a distinct border with normal brain tissue, which facilitates tumor removal. However, residual tumor tissue may be present after surgery when metastatic brain tumors are of cystic type. We have developed a method using hydrofiber dressing to transform cystic-type into solid-type tumors.MethodsHydrofiber dressing is a sodium carboxymethylcellulose hydrocolloid polymer with high fluid-absorptive capacity. This material was originally used as a dressing for exudative wounds. Hydrofiber dressing was used for 8 patients with cystic-type metastatic brain tumor. Tumor removal was performed after hydrofiber dressing was inserted into the cyst cavity to transform the tumor into a solid-type tumor.ResultsTransformation of cystic-type metastatic brain tumors into smaller solid-type tumors using hydrofiber dressing facilitated en bloc resection of tumor. The dressing also absorbed residual cyst fluid and was thus also effective in preventing intraoperative dissemination of tumor cells. This approach enabled ideal en bloc resection in all patients. There were no adverse events.ConclusionsThese findings suggest hydrofiber dressing may be useful in surgery for cystic-type metastatic brain tumors.