A moveable 3-Tesla intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging system

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Imaging
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Background:

• A prototype 1.5T intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) system demonstrated success.
• A need for increased signal-to-noise ratio, improved image quality, and advanced applications led to the development of a 3.0T system.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical applicability of a novel 3.0T intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) system.
• To prospectively assess the system's performance in a neurosurgical patient cohort.

Main Methods:

• Upgraded an existing iMRI operating room with a ceiling-mounted, moveable 3.0T magnet and whole-room radiofrequency shielding.
• Installed a new hydraulic operating table, high-performance gradients, and advanced image processing software.
• Integrated the 3.0T iMRI system as an adjunct to standard neurosurgical procedures.

Main Results:

• The 3.0T iMRI system upgrade took 6 months and has since guided neurosurgery in 120 patients without failure.
• Intraoperative image quality at 3.0T was superior to 1.5T, enabling advanced sequences like tractography.
• Intraoperative imaging significantly influenced surgical decision-making in a substantial number of patients.

Conclusions:

• Implementing a moveable 3.0T magnet-based intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) system is feasible.
• Clinical experience with 120 patients confirms that 3.0T iMRI is safe, reliable, and provides exceptional image quality for image-guided surgery.