A research team from the University of Twente and Radboudumc has taken an important step toward the safe use of 3T MRI scans in patients with Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). With an adapted scanning protocol, it appears possible to accurately and safely visualise electrodes after implantation, potentially improving the treatment process.
In the Netherlands, around 1,700 new cases of Parkinsonâs disease are diagnosed each year. Although the disease cannot be cured, DBS can relieve symptoms in some patients. In this treatment, electrodes are placed deep in the brain to electrically stimulate specific regions. Because these target areas are often only a few millimeters in size, extremely precise placement is essential.
Current treatment
Currently, an MRI-scan is performed before surgery to visualise the target brain areas. After implantation, a CT-scan is usually used to check the position of the electrodes. By combining these images, doctors determine whether the electrodes are correctly placed. Both techniques have limitations: CT clearly shows the electrodes but provides little detail of surrounding brain tissue, while MRI offers detailed images of tissue but generally cannot be safely used after implantation.
âWith our adapted 3T protocol, that does become possible,â the research team states. This could allow clinicians to use MRI immediately after surgery to verify electrode placement and adjust stimulation accordingly.
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