Intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI)
About this test
Intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) is a procedure that creates images of the brain during surgery. Neurosurgeons rely on iMRI to guide them in removing brain tumors and treating other conditions such as epilepsy.
Why it's done
Surgeons use iMRI to assist in procedures that treat a variety of brain tumors. Surgery is often the first step to treat a tumor that can be removed without causing neurological damage. Some tumors have a clearly defined shape and can be removed easily. In addition, surgeons use iMRI to place deep brain stimulators to treat epilepsy, essential tremor, dystonia and Parkinson's disease. iMRI also is used to assist in surgery for some brain conditions. They include a bulge in a blood vessel, known as an aneurysm, and tangled blood vessels, known as arteriovenous malformation. The technology also may be used in surgery to treat mental health disorders. During these procedures, iMRI allows surgeons to monitor brain activity. It helps surgeons check for bleeding, clots and other complications. Intraoperative MRI can help prevent damage to surrounding tissue and protect brain function. It also can help address complications earlier. The technology may reduce the need for additional operations. For cancer surgery, iMRI helps surgeons ensure that the entire tumor has been removed.
What to expect
Surgeons use iMRI to create real-time brain images. At certain points during an operation, the surgeon may want to see certain images of the brain. MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed brain images. To use MRI technology during surgery, healthcare professionals may bring a portable iMRI machine into the operating room to create images. Or they may keep the iMRI machine in a room nearby so surgeons can easily move you there for imaging during the procedure. iMRI cannot be used in patients with most pacemakers, cochlear implants, and metal joints or certain implants.
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