Wednesday, July 25, 2007

Brain Lab

Vascular Surgery
Week 5


Neuro Detour cont’d
This is the VectorVision by BrainLAB. It integrates functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) data to help a surgeon localize the removal of brain lesions while preserving surrounding brain tissue. The fMRI uses blood oxygen level-dependent (BOLD) contrast imaging to localize brain areas such as the motor cortex or language areas in response to task performance—the MR signal is slightly different depending on the level of blood oxygenation due to the diamagnetic when oxygenated, paramagnetic when deoxygenated, nature of hemoglobin.

http://www.brainlab.com

The surgeon uses the fMRI interfacial data to ensure the tumor is removed completely. The above image shows some of the brain anatomy highlighted. This is a fantastic technology, and I think it’s important to point out that innovation can stem from existing technology that is applied in a novel way.

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