Intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging in neurosurgery

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Imaging
• Radiology

Background:

• Intraoperative magnetic resonance (MR)-guided neurosurgery has been utilized since 1996, predominantly for brain tumor resections.
• Various concepts for intraoperative MRI procedures employing low-, middle-, and high-field MR scanners have been documented by leading neurosurgical institutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a practical overview of different intraoperative MRI solutions employed in neurosurgical centers.
• To detail the authors' specific concept and experience with 160 craniotomies using a low-field (0.23T) intraoperative MRI system.

Main Methods:

• Review of different intraoperative MRI concepts implemented in pioneering neurosurgical centers.
• Detailed description of a specific intraoperative MRI setup featuring a low-field (0.23T) scanner operational during surgery.
• Surgical case series of 160 craniotomies performed with the described intraoperative MRI system since 1999.

Main Results:

• The study provides a practical perspective on diverse intraoperative MRI approaches in neurosurgery.
• The authors report their experience with 160 craniotomies, demonstrating the feasibility and application of a low-field (0.23T) intraoperative MRI system.
• The described system allows for intraoperative MR imaging to be activated and deactivated as needed during surgical procedures.

Conclusions:

• Intraoperative MRI offers valuable guidance in neurosurgical operations, particularly for brain tumors.
• Low-field intraoperative MRI systems provide a practical and effective solution for enhancing surgical precision and safety.
• The authors' experience highlights the successful integration and utility of a switchable low-field (0.23T) intraoperative MRI scanner in a clinical setting.