Intra-operative correction of brain-shift

Abstract

Brain-shift is a major source of error in neuronavigation systems based on pre-operative images. In this paper, we present intra-operative correction of brain-shift using 3D ultrasound. The method is based on image registration of vessels extracted from pre-operative MRA and intra-operative power Doppler-based ultrasound and is fully integrated in the neuronavigation software. We have performed correction of brain-shift in the operating room during surgery and provided the surgeon with updated information. Here, we present data from seven clinical cases with qualitative and quantitative error measures. The registration algorithm is fast enough to provide the surgeon with updated information within minutes and accounts for large portions of the experienced shift. Correction of brain-shift can make pre-operative data like fMRI and DTI reliable for a longer period of time and increase the usefulness of the MR data as a supplement to intra-operative 3D ultrasound in terms of overview and interpretation.