MRI used in endoscopic scull base neurosurgery

The new Achieva 3.0T X-series MR supplied by Phillips has been installed at the Interventional Centre, and has been operational from early January 2008. The 3 tesla MR is installed in conjunction with an Operating Room, and patients can be moved back and forth during surgical procedures for MRI scans. So far pre-, and post operative scans during endoscopic neurosurgical scull base procedures. Endoscopy and neuro navigation systems are combined in the operations. Intraoperative MRI scans will be facilitated when a MR-compatible OR table top is installed. A sliding door between the OR and the MR can be opened for access to immediate MRI-scans. The MR can also be used separately, and many clinical reseach groups are using the new magnet including Department of Cardiology, Department of Neurosurgery, and the Pediatric Research Institute from Rikshospitalet. Department of Psychology and the Biophysics Group at Department of Physics at University of Oslo are also involved in research activities including Functional MRI and advanced image processing. Plans to implement and combine High Intensity Focused Ultrasaound with MR Imageing also exists, although the technological platform is still not established.