Neuro-Oncology

Neuro-Imaging Resources: A Window on the Brain

New imaging technologies have revolutionized both brain tumor surgery and radiation therapy. The neurosurgical oncology group is skilled in suchtechniques as positron emission tomography (PET), frameless-based stereotaxis and functional magnetic resonance imaging to ensure the most accurate diagnostic biopsies and maximal resection of benign and malignant primary and metastatic brain tumors.

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) allows physicians to map areas of the brain associated with vital functions such as speech, vision, hearing, taste, touch and voluntary movement. Sensory and motor activities alter the flow of blood and the use of oxygen in the areas of the brain involved in these functions, producing signals that can be detected by the MRI scanner. A functional MRI assessment before surgery clearly shows the differences in brain organization from one person to another and can be critical in determining the best surgical approach.