Pietro La Cava

Pietro La Cava


Research Focus & Metrics

Academic Career Length

3Years (2024-Present)

(Calculated once Scilit publication data is synced: current year − year of first publication + 1)

Representative Publications

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6 August 2024 in Cancers
Verified
Journal Article
Open access
PDF file
APAlessandro Pesaresi
Alessandro Pesaresi
PCPietro La Cava
Pietro La Cava
MBMarta Bonada
Marta Bonada
PZPietro Zeppa
Pietro Zeppa
AMAntonio Melcarne
Antonio Melcarne
ABAndrea Bianconi
Andrea Bianconi
Background: Fluorescence-guided resection (FGR) of glioblastomas has been previously explored with the use of 5-amivelulinic acid (5-ALA) and sodium fluoresceine (SF), allowing us to maximize the extent of resection (EoR). In this study, we highlight the most relevant concerns regarding this technique and present the methods and results from the experience of our center. Methods: A case series of 100 patients operated on in AOU Città della Salute e della Scienza in Turin with a histological diagnosis of glioblastoma (grade IV, according to WHO 2021) was retrospectively analyzed. Both 5-ALA and SF were administered and intraoperatively assessed with an optical microscope. Results: 5-ALA is the only approved drug for FGR in glioblastoma, reporting an increased EoR. Nevertheless, SF can be positively used in addition to 5-ALA to reduce the risk of false positives without increasing the rate of adverse effects. In our experience, SF was used to guide the initial phase of resection while 5-ALA was used to visualize tumor spots within the surgical cavity. In 96% of cases, gross total resection was achieved, with supra-maximal resection in 11% of cases. Conclusions: Combined FGR using 5-ALA and SF seems to be a promising method of increasing the extent of resection and to improving the prognosis in glioblastoma patients.