Planning stereotactic surgery using the graphic prescription and explicit prescription MRI programs

A method is described for planning stereotactic approaches to central nervous system lesions utilizing specialized programs contained within the GE sigma Magnetic Resonance Imaging scanner software. The graphic prescription program creates oblique scans relative to a localizer scan made in any standard orthogonal plane and the explicit prescription program creates slices perpendicular to any two chosen points. Using these programs to advantage, one can create an oblique coronal scan that contains the entry point, the approach tract and the target plus a series of cross sectional oblique scans perpendicular to and progressing along the approach track to the target. These scans can then be employed to modify a proposed approach so as to avoid blood vessels and other vital structures.