The functional MRI (fMRI) helps our doctors and nurses make comprehensive treatment plans for children with brain tumors or epilepsy.
A fMRI is used to look at the functions of the brain in relation to the structure. This is different than the MRI or intraoperative MRI which are used to look at the structure of your child’s brain.
We use fMRI to:
- Map sensation, movement or language areas – If areas of the brain have been changed by a disease, then a functional area, like speech, may not be where they are supposed to be.
- Pinpoint the exact area of the brain that will be operated on – This gives us the best chance to avoid affecting other brain functions.
When used alongside magnetoencephalography (MEG) technology and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), the fMRI gives patients the most comprehensive evaluation before surgery.
