Intraoperative low-field MR imaging in neurosurgery—experience in 300 patients

Abstract

Intraoperative magnetic resonance (MR) imaging was used to evaluate the extent of a resection, mainly in pituitary, brain tumor and epilepsy surgery. This paper summarizes some of our experience gained in 300 patients, which were investigated by intraoperative MR imaging. In addition to MR imaging, functional data from magnetoencephalography and functional magnetic resonance imaging, resulting in so-called functional neuronavigation, were visualized intraoperatively, when lesions near eloquent brain areas were operated on. Both methods could be integrated in our intraoperative setup with a new navigation microscope that could be used at the 5 Gauss line. The combination of both methods offers the possibility to perform more radical resections without additional morbidity. Intraoperative MR imaging serves as quality control to evaluate the extent of a resection, while functional neuronavigation prevents too extensive resections that could result in neurological deficits.