Blood oxygen level dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging for presurgical planning

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) has become a common tool for presurgical sensorimotor mapping, and is a significant preoperative asset for tumors located adjacent to the central sulcus. fMRI has changed surgical options for many patients. This noninvasive tool allows for easy display and integration with other neuroimaging techniques. Although fMRI is a useful preoperative tool, it is not perfect. Tumors that affect the normal vascular coupling of neuronal activity will affect fMRI measurements. This article discusses the usefulness of blood oxygen level dependent (BOLD) fMRI with regard to preoperative motor mapping.