Paradigms for Clinical fMRI

Abstract

This unit presents description of four basic clinical paradigms for clinical fMRI of language cmprehension, eye movement (visually guidede saccades), motor cortex (finger-thumb apposition), and visual cortex. Given the neurosurgical concern with preservation of eloquent cortex, brain functions of particular interest are primary sensory (e.g., visual, auditory) and motor functions, and high level processing of language comprehension and expression. Compromise of these functions is usually readily apparent clinically and the quality of life of the patient is severely diminished. Functional MRI offers a means to locate these functions, thereby allowing the surgeon to plan on preserving these functions, or prepare the patient appropriately.