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Intraoperative MRI for Brain Tumors

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Abstract

Introduction

The use of intraoperative imaging has been a critical tool in the neurosurgeon’s armamentarium and is of particular benefit during tumor surgery. This article summarizes the history of its development, implementation, clinical experience and future directions.

Methods

We reviewed the literature focusing on the development and clinical experience with intraoperative MRI. Utilizing the authors’ personal experience as well as evidence from the literature, we present an overview of the utility of MRI during neurosurgery.

Results

In the 1990s, the first description of using a low field MRI in the operating room was published describing the additional benefit provided by improved resolution of MRI as compared to ultrasound. Since then, implementation has varied in magnetic field strength and in configuration from floor mounted to ceiling mounted units as well as those that are accessible to the operating room for use during surgery and via an outpatient entrance to use for diagnostic imaging. The experience shows utility of this technique for increasing extent of resection for low and high grade tumors as well as preventing injury to important structures while incorporating techniques such as intraoperative monitoring.

Conclusion

This article reviews the history of intraoperative MRI and presents a review of the literature revealing the successful implementation of this technology and benefits noted for the patient and the surgeon.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Neurosurgery, Virginia Tech Carilion, Roanoke, VA, USA

    Cara Marie Rogers

  2. Department of Neurosurgery, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA

    Pamela S. Jones

  3. Department of Neurosurgery, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA

    Jeffrey S. Weinberg

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  1. Cara Marie Rogers
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  2. Pamela S. Jones
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  3. Jeffrey S. Weinberg
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Correspondence to Jeffrey S. Weinberg.

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Rogers, C.M., Jones, P.S. & Weinberg, J.S. Intraoperative MRI for Brain Tumors. J Neurooncol 151, 479–490 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11060-020-03667-6

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