3-DIMENSIONAL MAGNETIC-RESONANCE IMAGES OF THE BRAIN - APPLICATION TO NEUROSURGICAL PLANNING

Data from single 10-minute magnetic resonance scans were used to create three-dimensional (3-D) views of the surfaces of the brain and skin of 12 patients. In each case, these views were used to make a preoperative assessment of the relationship of lesions to brain surface structures associated with movement, sensation, hearing, and speech. Interactive software was written so that the user could 'slice' through the 3-D computer model and inspect cross-sectional images at any level. A surgery simulation program was written so that surgeons were able to 'rehearse' craniotomies on 3-D computer models before performing the actual operations. In each case, the qualitative accuracy of the 3-D views was confirmed by intraoperative inspection of the brain surface and by intraoperative electrophysiological mapping, when available.