Use of Diffusion Tensor Imaging in Glioma Resection
Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is increasingly used in the resection of both high- and low-grade gliomas. Whereas conventional MRI techniques provide only anatomical information, DTI offers data on CNS connectivity by enabling visualization of important white matter tracts in the brain. Importantly, DTI allows neurosurgeons to better guide their surgical approach and resection. Here, the authors review basic scientific principles of DTI, include a primer on the technology and image acquisition, and outline the modality's evolution as a frequently used tool for glioma resection. Current literature supporting its use is summarized, highlighting important clinical studies on the application of DTI in preoperative planning for glioma resection, preoperative diagnosis, and postoperative outcomes. The authors conclude with a review of future directions for this technology.
Diffusion tensor imaging is a form of diffusion-weighted MRI that assesses physiological water directionality and motion, providing images of important white matter tracts within the CNS. Conventional MRI techniques provide purely anatomical information without data regarding CNS connectivity. The ability to visualize important white matter tracts in the brain enables neurosurgeons to better guide their surgical approach and resection. Below, we provide a primer on the biophysical basis of DTI, review the current state of the literature on the use of DTI for glioma resection, and discuss future advances in the field.
Abstractabstract and Introduction
Abstract
Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is increasingly used in the resection of both high- and low-grade gliomas. Whereas conventional MRI techniques provide only anatomical information, DTI offers data on CNS connectivity by enabling visualization of important white matter tracts in the brain. Importantly, DTI allows neurosurgeons to better guide their surgical approach and resection. Here, the authors review basic scientific principles of DTI, include a primer on the technology and image acquisition, and outline the modality's evolution as a frequently used tool for glioma resection. Current literature supporting its use is summarized, highlighting important clinical studies on the application of DTI in preoperative planning for glioma resection, preoperative diagnosis, and postoperative outcomes. The authors conclude with a review of future directions for this technology.
Introduction
Diffusion tensor imaging is a form of diffusion-weighted MRI that assesses physiological water directionality and motion, providing images of important white matter tracts within the CNS. Conventional MRI techniques provide purely anatomical information without data regarding CNS connectivity. The ability to visualize important white matter tracts in the brain enables neurosurgeons to better guide their surgical approach and resection. Below, we provide a primer on the biophysical basis of DTI, review the current state of the literature on the use of DTI for glioma resection, and discuss future advances in the field.
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