Brain mapping for hemispheric tumors in children

Hemispheric tumors are common in children. Pathologically, they range from indolent low grade astrocytic tumors to high grade malignant neoplasms. In general, the extent of resection correlates favorably with survival. Advances in technology are permitting surgical resection to be extended to near eloquent and eloquent regions of the brain. These techniques include advanced neuronavigation, brain mapping, and intra-operative MRI scanners. Incorporation of functional information in surgical planning should lead to safer surgical procedures with improvements in patient outcome.