(MRgLITT) Laser interstitial thermal therapy’ (LITT)

MRgLITT is a minimally invasive treatment which can be used in focal refractory epilepsy. Stereotactic neurosurgical technique is used to guide a 3mm diameter fibreoptic laser to the target area of the brain. Under continuous MRI monitoring, laser energy is applied to the target area to destroy the part of the brain causing seizure activity. It is safer than open neurosurgery as there is less risk of collateral damage to other structures in the brain. Open surgery causes damage along the operative pathway to access the part to be removed, which is mitigated by this minimally invasive approach. Please see the link to the policy: https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/clinical-commissioning-policy-mr-guided-laser-interstitial-thermal-therapy/ Providers will be required to have an established epilepsy surgical programme currently that complies with the requirements as set out in either the adults and/or children’s specifications, links below: Link to children’s epilepsy surgery service specification: https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/childrens-epilepsy-surgery-service-cess/ Link to adult neurosurgery service specification: https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/neurosurgery-adults/ The service expected to commence in 2023/24. The anticipated contract duration for this service is 5 years, with an option to extend the contract by a further 48 month period at the Commissioner’s discretion. It is possible that as a result of this exercise, a formal tender process will not be required but instead a simpler provider selection process will be undertaken. Where it is noted that competition is absent, direct awards may be considered. All providers will be notified of next steps following the conclusion of this market engagement exercise. NHS England is the contracting and commissioning authority for this service. To register your interest and access the questionnaire, please follow this link: https://uk.eu-supply.com/login.asp?B=agcsu The project reference is 64482 and the closing date for submission of the completed questionnaire is: 12 noon Monday 30th January 2023.