OBJECTIVE: To assess the feasibility of a hybrid imaging setup combining x-ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the setting of both stereotactic and functional neurosurgery.
METHODS: A combined x-ray and MRI scanning facility with a trolley system for a fast patient transfer between both modalities was installed in a neurosurgical setting. A registration algorithm for fusion of MRI scans and x-ray images was derived for augmentation of fluoroscopic x-ray projection images with MRI scan data, such as anatomic structures and planned probe trajectories. Phantom measurements were obtained between both modalities for estimation of registration accuracy. Practical application of our system in stereotactic and functional neurosurgery was tested in brachytherapy, deep brain stimulation, and motor cortex stimulation.
RESULTS: Phantom measurements yielded a mean spatial deviation of 0.7 ± 0.3 mm with a maximum deviation of 1.1 mm for MRI scans versus x-rays. Augmentation of x-ray images with MRI scan data allowed intraoperative verification of the planned trajectory and target in three types of neurosurgical procedures: positioning iodine seeds in brachytherapy in one case with cerebellar metastasis, placement of electrodes for deep brain stimulation in two cases of advanced Parkinson's disease, and placement of an epidural grid for motor cortex stimulation in two cases of intractable pain.
CONCLUSION: Combined x-ray and MRI-guided stereotactic and functional neurosurgery is feasible. Augmentation of x-ray projection images with MRI scan data, such as planned probe trajectories and MRI scan segmented anatomic structures may be beneficial for probe guidance in stereotactic and functional neurosurgery.