title: Magnetic resonance imaging stereotaxy: recognition and utilization of the commissures.
abstract: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) offers a non-invasive method to visualize the intracerebral structures. Coupled to a compatible stereotactic frame and software, MRI can be used to determine the coordinates of intracranial targets. Coordinates of the anterior commissure, posterior commissure, targets and intercommissural distance were obtained from positive contrast ventriculography and by MRI in 6 patients undergoing stereotactic localization prior to the implantation of stimulating thalamic electrodes for pain control. The correlation of coordinates and measurements obtained with ventriculography and MRI is +/- 1 mm in most measurements, but up to 3 mm in 2 cases. Magnetic resonance stereotaxy allows non-invasive and precise localization of intracerebral targets, but does not yet allow its routine use with confidence. Further understanding of distortion and artifacts and corrections of these is mandatory.
authors.affiliation: Montreal Neurological Hospital, Que., Canada.
authors.forename: J G
authors.initials: JG
authors.lastname: Villemure
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Marchand
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Peters
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Leroux
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Olivier
mesh_terms: D001921:Brain / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D014695:Cerebral Ventriculography; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods; D010148:Intractable Pain / Q000628:therapy; D013238:Stereotaxic Techniques; D013788:Thalamus