Iterative Brain Mapping via fMRI Atlas Correlation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for functional brain mapping, such as invasive cortical stimulation and fMRI, face challenges in accurately determining the functional organization of the brain, especially in patients who cannot perform tasks, and lack the ability to simultaneously map multiple brain functions or deep brain structures.
Innovation Solution
The use of resting state or task-based functional connectivity magnetic resonance imaging (fcMRI) data with an iterative algorithm that employs a population atlas and variation map to determine functional brain organization, allowing for the identification of functional networks in individual subjects without requiring patient participation or invasive procedures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If invasive cortical stimulation is used to map eloquent cortices, then mapping accuracy is improved, but patient safety and comfort deteriorate due to invasive procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/invasive approach of cortical stimulation with a non-invasive functional MRI-based mapping system. The system uses magnetic resonance imaging to detect brain activity patterns and identify eloquent cortices without requiring physical penetration or electrical stimulation of the brain tissue, thereby maintaining mapping accuracy while eliminating surgical risks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary computational framework that processes fMRI data to infer functional brain organization. This intermediary system uses signal processing, statistical analysis, and machine learning algorithms to translate raw imaging data into accurate functional maps, serving as a mediator between the non-invasive imaging modality and the clinical decision-making process.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If task-based fMRI is used to map functional activity, then non-invasive mapping is achieved, but patient participation requirement worsens the ease of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent develops a multi-functional mapping system that can operate in multiple modes: task-based mode for cooperative patients and resting-state mode for patients who cannot perform tasks. This universal approach allows the same system to serve diverse patient populations by adapting its operational mode to the patient's capabilities, eliminating the need for task performance while maintaining mapping accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic approach that adapts the mapping protocol based on patient condition. The system can dynamically switch between different functional paradigms (task-based, resting-state, or hybrid approaches) depending on the patient's ability to participate, making the procedure flexible and accessible to all patient types without requiring standardized task performance.
3Measurement precision
If separate task sets are performed to target distinct functions, then functional specificity is improved, but time efficiency deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional mapping objectives into a unified analysis framework. By combining data from multiple functional domains (motor, sensory, language, memory) and analyzing them through integrated computational models, the system achieves comprehensive functional mapping in a single scanning session, eliminating the need for separate task sets while maintaining functional specificity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs preliminary identification of functionally connected regions through resting-state or baseline task data, which then guides subsequent targeted analysis. This preliminary action allows the system to pre-identify regions of interest and functional networks, enabling more efficient and specific mapping of distinct functions without requiring exhaustive separate task sets for each functional domain.
4Measurement precision
If subdural grids are implanted for cortical mapping, then deep brain structure information is excluded, but mapping coverage is improved for cortical surfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal mapping system based on fMRI that simultaneously provides both cortical and deep brain structure information. The functional MRI modality captures whole-brain activity including cortical surfaces and deep structures in a single non-invasive scan, making the system versatile for mapping any brain region without requiring different techniques for different anatomical locations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the surface-limited subdural grid system with a volumetric imaging approach using functional MRI. This substitution enables three-dimensional mapping of both cortical and subcortical structures, providing comprehensive whole-brain coverage including deep brain structures that are inaccessible to surface electrodes, while maintaining the precision needed for surgical planning.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach provides a robust, non-invasive method for determining functional brain organization with high reproducibility and sensitivity to individual differences, enabling effective pre-surgical evaluation and potentially replacing invasive methods in clinical settings.
Implementation Method 1
a magnet system configured to generate a polarizing magnetic field about at least a portion of a subject arranged in the MRI system
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and method for producing functional brain organization maps are provided. The method includes providing functional connectivity magnetic resonance image (fcMRI) data, a population atlas, a variation map indicative of inter-subject variability in the atlas. The method also includes initializing a subject map using the atlas, determining a reference signal for each functional connectivity network in the subject map using signals derived from the fcMRI data, computing correlations between the signals and reference signal of each functional connectivity network, and iteratively updating the subject map by reassigning locations in the subject brain when correlating with a functional connectivity network, updating at each iteration the reference signal using the subject map, the population atlas, the variation map, and the set of fcMRI data. The method further includes generating a report indicative of a functional brain organization for the brain of the subject using the subject map.