Fluorescence-guided surgery with aminolevulinic acid for low-grade gliomas

Abstract

Introduction: Fluorescence guided surgery has developed over the last 2 decades as a formidable augmentation strategy to promote maximal safe resection and diagnostic accuracy within gliomas. The majority of the literature evidence supporting this modality utilizes 5-aminolevulinic acid in the setting of high-grade gliomas. The role for fluorescence guided surgery in low-grade gliomas is less well defined. Results: This review describes the existing literature discussing the utilization of 5-aminolevulinic acid for fluorescence guided surgery in low-grade gliomas, including its pertinence in identification of anaplastic foci and potential role in guiding resection following combination with augmentation strategies for detection. Conclusion: The advance in operative technology and growth of research analyzing 5-aminolevulinic acid will continue to enhance the role of fluorescence guided surgery within the standard of surgical management for low-grade gliomas.