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MR Diffusion Tensor Imaging and Tractography

Mapping white matter pathways and pre-surgical planning.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Radyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is MR Diffusion Tensor Imaging and Tractography?

Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) is an advanced MR technique that maps axonal pathways by measuring directional water-molecule diffusion (anisotropy) in the white matter. Fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean diffusivity (MD) are the principal parameters.

Tractography uses DTI data to provide a 3D reconstruction of white-matter tracts. Important pathways such as the corticospinal tract, arcuate fasciculus, optic radiation and corpus callosum can be visualised.

It is used in pre-operative planning for brain tumour surgery to preserve functional white-matter tracts, in the assessment of diffuse axonal injury after traumatic brain injury and in the evaluation of white-matter integrity in neurodegenerative disease.

Symptoms

Pre-operative planning for brain tumour surgery
Diffuse axonal injury after traumatic brain injury
White-matter assessment in multiple sclerosis
Pre-operative mapping for epilepsy surgery
Evaluation in neurodegenerative disease

Risk Factors

Standard MR contraindications
High sensitivity to motion artefact
Limitations of tractography algorithms (crossing fibres)
Perioperative cerebral oedema can change the maps

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • When brain tumour surgery is being planned (neurosurgical request)
  • For persistent neurological symptoms after head trauma
  • When epilepsy surgery is being considered
  • When white-matter disease is suspected

Treatment Methods

01
Diffusion-weighted imaging in at least 30 directions
02
FA, MD and radial diffusivity maps
03
Deterministic or probabilistic tractography algorithms
04
Integration with neuronavigation systems (surgical planning)
05
Clinical correlation and multidisciplinary review

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Radyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.