Three-dimensional Maps of Brain Wiring

In the past, the only way for a neurosurgeon to view the entire mapping of the brain he/she had to operate. With the new technology of High Angular Resolution Diffusion Imaging (HARDI), researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology have developed a software tool that "physicians can use to easily study the wiring of the brains of their patients ."

One practical application of this new technology comes into play in deep brain stimulation. Thanks to this "new tool," neurosurgeons can accurately determine where to place the electrodes for stimulation rather than needing to induce a seizure in the patient to determine the location in the brain.

I find this article interesting because it allows surgeons to know in advance how a patients brain is mapped, allowing them to make less errors. Since there is so much of the brain we still do not know, this tool is important because it is bringing scientists and surgeons one step closer in solving the great mystery of the brain

James Spencer

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/206213.php