( Brain specialists at The Neuroscience I...)New fMRI technology making brain tumor surgery safer

Brain specialists at The Neuroscience Institute at University Hospital and the University of Cincinnati have taken a significant step forward in their quest to treat difficult tumors while preserving areas of the brain that are responsible for speech and movement. The Cincinnati specialists are among the first in the country to use new technology that integrates functional MRI (fMRI) data into high-tech surgical navigation systems.

The fMRI data, which pinpoint language, cognition, and mobility centers of the brain, allow neurosurgeons to remove tumors to the greatest extent possible without harming areas that are critical to the patient’s quality of life.

Functional MRI creates a series of images that capture blood oxygen levels in parts of the brain that are responsible for movement, perception, and cognition. Functional MRI, which reveals the brain in action, differs from standard MRI, which provides a static image.

“This is a quantum leap in what we’re able to do,?said Dr. James Leach, a brain-imaging specialist (neuroradiologist) with UC Radiology and The Neuroscience Institute. “It has significantly affected how neurosurgeons plan to do neurosurgery and how much tumor they can remove while still avoiding critical areas of brain function.?

Said Christopher McPherson, M.D., a neurosurgeon with The Neuroscience Institute: “It’s easier and safer for the patient, and it can reduce the length of surgery.?

The fMRI technology is manufactured by BrainLAB and marketed as iPlan BOLD (blood oxygen level dependent) MRI Mapping. It has been used successfully in 12 surgical cases so far at University Hospital.

The technology involves collaboration between the Mayfield Clinic, one of the nation's leading physician organizations for clinical care, education, and research of the spine and brain, and UC Radiology, which purchased the BrainLAB planning station hardware. Both physician practices are closely affiliated with
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Source:The Neuroscience Institute

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