title: A simple method of scalp localization using multiplanar reconstruction of MR images.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Image-based scalp localization methods currently used are complex and not standardized. The authors have developed a simple yet accurate method for craniotomy localization using multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) algorithms.
  
  
  METHODS
  In this method, the goal is to localize a projected point (defined as T) of the center of the lesion on the scalp. An oblique coronal plane is reformatted using a patient's magnetic resonance (MR) images with MPR algorithms to include both the center of the lesion and bilateral external auditory meati. Then the distance between T and the ipsilateral external auditory meatus or sagittal suture (defined as S) is measured along the scalp contour in the plane. The distance between the bregma and S is also measured. These distances are used for scalp localization, using a tape measure in the operating room.
  
  
  RESULTS
  We have had successful scalp localization in six clinical cases. It took about 3 min to measure each distance on the MR console.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  This method for craniotomy planning using MPR algorithms is simple and sufficiently accurate.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA.
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Nakajima
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Atsumi
authors.forename: D C
authors.initials: DC
authors.lastname: Metcalf
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Yoshimine
authors.forename: F A
authors.initials: FA
authors.lastname: Jolesz
authors.forename: P M
authors.initials: PM
authors.lastname: Black
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Kikinis
mesh_terms: D003399:Craniotomy / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging