Advanced Intraoperative MR Imaging

Soon after the invention of intraoperative MR imaging in 1997, various applications have been presented. Besides being an early resection control, intraoperative MRI was used to update neuro-navigation and replace frame based stereotactic systems. Recently, advanced MR imaging techniques (including MR spectroscopy (MRS), diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), functional MRI (fMRI), and dynamic susceptibility weighted MR imaging (DSC-MRI)) were introduced, applied in an intraoperative environment. Feasibility and clinical applications have previously been presented. This review summarizes all these advanced techniques and discusses advantages and disadvantages during the resection of a lesion using intraoperative MRI.