Assessment of visual function during brain surgery near the visual cortex by intraoperative optical imaging

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Neuroimaging
• Ophthalmology

Background:

• Intraoperative mapping of sensory, motor, and speech areas is standard, but visual function mapping is less common.
• Preserving visual function during brain surgery is critical, necessitating advanced intraoperative monitoring techniques.

Observation:

• A novel, contact-free optical camera system was utilized for intraoperative optical imaging (IOI).
• Visual stimulation via strobe-light flashes was applied to both eyes during surgery.
• Images were captured using a camera attached to a surgical microscope.

Findings:

• The study successfully mapped the individual visual cortex on the brain surface using IOI.
• Activity maps were reproducibly generated by analyzing blood volume-dependent signal changes in the exposed cortex.
• The technique demonstrated potential for mapping visual function during neurosurgical interventions involving the visual cortex.

Implications:

• This non-invasive optical imaging technique offers a new method for preserving visual function during brain surgery.
• Further studies are required to confirm the clinical relevance and reliability of this visual cortex mapping technique.
• The findings may enhance surgical precision and patient outcomes in procedures near the visual cortex.