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Updated: Aug 5, 2026
Assessing Cortical Cerebral Microinfarcts on High Resolution MR Images
Published on: November 20, 2015
Brain tumor resection: intraoperative monitoring with high-field-strength MR imaging-initial results
1Department of Radiology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455-0392, USA. marti154@tc.umn.edu
Purpose:
To investigate the challenges and benefits of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging during brain tumor resection.
Materials And Methods:
A short-bore 1.5-T MR system equipped with echo-planar-capable gradients was used in resection of brain tumors in 30 patients. MR sequences and need for contrast material enhancement were determined on the basis of the targeted lesion. MR images were acquired before, during, and after surgery. Tissue obtained at biopsy or excised as a result of intraoperative MR findings was examined histopathologically.
Results:
MR images of enhancing lesions proved to be the most challenging to interpret intraoperatively, and relative enhancement at the resection cavity boundary was not specific for residual tumor. The ability to detect residual tumor intraoperatively resulted in a radiologically complete resection in 24 (80%) of 30 patients. The frequency of complications was low, and no untoward effects related to the MR environment were observed.
Conclusion:
Intraoperative MR imaging provided valuable information on the completeness of resection, and resection progress was well demonstrated during surgery.
Insights
Intraoperative magnetic resonance (MR) imaging helps surgeons assess brain tumor resection completeness in real-time. This technique enabled complete tumor removal in 80% of patients, improving surgical outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Medical Imaging
- Oncology
Background:
- Brain tumor resection is a complex procedure requiring precise surgical guidance.
- Intraoperative imaging modalities can enhance surgical precision and improve patient outcomes.
- Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging offers detailed anatomical visualization crucial for neurosurgical interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the advantages and difficulties of using intraoperative magnetic resonance (MR) imaging during brain tumor removal.
- To assess the impact of intraoperative MR imaging on the completeness of tumor resection and patient safety.
Main Methods:
- A 1.5-T MR system was utilized for intraoperative imaging in 30 patients undergoing brain tumor resection.
- MR imaging was performed before, during, and after surgical procedures.
- Histopathological examination of resected tissue correlated with intraoperative MR findings.
Main Results:
- Intraoperative MR imaging facilitated the detection of residual tumor, leading to a radiologically complete resection in 80% of cases (24/30 patients).
- Interpreting MR images of enhancing lesions intraoperatively presented challenges, with enhancement at the resection boundary not always indicating residual tumor.
- The study observed a low frequency of complications, with no adverse events linked to the MR environment.
Conclusions:
- Intraoperative MR imaging provides critical information regarding the extent of tumor resection during surgery.
- The real-time visualization offered by intraoperative MR imaging aids in demonstrating resection progress effectively.
