Intra-operative magnetic resonance imaging in neurosurgery.

Intra-operative MRI (iMRI) has been incorporated into modern neurosurgical operating rooms as a guide for neurosurgical interventions for almost ten years. This technology has been shown to be a useful modality in brain tumour surgery and biopsy; its use in spine, vascular and epilepsy surgery has been evolving. It is particularly useful in low-grade gliomas, pituitary adenomas and pediatric tumors. We evaluate currently available iMRI systems and their applications in neurosurgery. Future possibilities related to iMRI systems are mentioned in the light of current advances. Copyright 2004 Springer-Verlag