Localisation of the central sulcus region in glioma patients with three-dimensional fluid-attenuated inversion recovery and volume rendering: comparison with functional and conventional magnetic resonance

Purpose. Volume rendering (VR) of three-dimensional (3D) fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) magnetic resonance (MR) images shows regional intensity differences, reflecting the central sulcus (CS) region and occipital cortex. The purpose of this study was to determine whether 3D FLAIR with VR could be used as an alternative method to localise the CS region in comparison with functional and conventional MR-imaging in patients with perirolandic glioma. Methods. Eleven patients with intracranial gliomas were studied with single-slab 3D FLAIR including VR and conventional T1-weighted imaging. In all patients, preoperative functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was performed with a motor paradigm of the hand. The hypo-intense central gyri on 3D FLAIR with VR were interpreted as the CS area. Localisation of the motor hand knob on anatomical images and fMRI results were used for identification of the primary motor cortex. Results. Anatomical localisation of the motor hand knob on T1-weighted images was possible in 91% of both hemispheres. In 73% of the affected hemispheres (AH) and 91% of the unaffected hemispheres (UH) the hand knob and CS region could be identified on 3D FLAIR axial and VR images, respectively. With one exception, fMRI activation confirmed the CS region as observed with 3D FLAIR with VR. Conclusions. Volume rendering of 3D FLAIR MR images shows central hypo-intensities frequently corresponding with the CS region. Two-dimensional localisation of the CS region on conventional T1-weighted images and fMRI seems favourable compared to 3D FLAIR. However, in selected cases, especially where fMRI is not possible or feasible, volume rendering with 3D FLAIR may enhance the 3D visualisation of gliomas in relation to the CS region which can be used as an alternative method in the presurgical structural and functional evaluation of neurosurgical patients.