Advancing Neuroblastoma Surgery through the Clinical Integration of Virtual Reality and Indocyanine Green Fluorescence-Guided Imaging: A Case Report.
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BACKGROUND: Neuroblastoma, the most common extracranial solid tumor in children, requires meticulous surgical interventions due to its complex anatomical location and proximity to vital structures. Emerging technologies, such as virtual reality (VR) and indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence-guided imaging, offer promising solutions to enhance surgical precision and outcomes. Despite their potential, their use in pediatric oncology remains underexplored. This case report highlights the integration of VR and ICG fluorescence imaging in the surgical treatment of neuroblastoma, emphasizing their benefits, limitations, and the need for further advancements. CASE DESCRIPTION: A 12-month-old female with a prenatal diagnosis of cloacal malformation, Müllerian anomalies, and a horseshoe kidney was under care at our center for the management of her complex urogenital anomalies. During preoperative imaging to plan her reconstructive surgery, an abdominal MRI revealed a solid retroperitoneal mass, later confirmed as a right adrenal neuroblastoma. After six cycles of chemotherapy, metaiodobenzylguanidine (mIBG) scans indicated persistent uptake, suggesting the possible presence of tumor viability. Consequently, a definitive surgical resection was scheduled. The procedure incorporated VR for navigation and ICG fluorescence for real-time vascular mapping, facilitating precise dissection and preservation of critical structures. The patient's postoperative recovery was uneventful, and she was discharged in stable condition. Follow-up evaluations (i.e., MRI, mIBG) showed no evidence of residual macroscopic disease. CONCLUSION: VR and ICG fluorescence imaging hold promise for enhancing surgical precision and safety in pediatric neuroblastoma. While current limitations include the lack of real-time image overlay and inadequate visualization of tumor margins, future advancements in navigation systems and targeted probes may overcome these barriers and significantly improve oncologic outcomes.