Automatic bundle-specific white matter fiber tracking tool using diffusion tensor imaging data: A pilot trial in the application of language-related glioma resection

Yifan Yuan, Tianming Qiu, Shin Tai Chong, Sanford Pin Chuan Hsu, Ying Hua Chu, Yi Cheng Hsu, Geng Xu, Yu Ting Ko, Kuan Tsen Kuo, Zixiao Yang, Wei Zhu, Ching Po Lin*, Jianping Song*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Cerebral neoplasms like gliomas may cause intracranial pressure increasing, neural tract deviation, infiltration, or destruction in peritumoral areas, leading to neuro-functional deficits. Novel tracking technology, such as DTI, can objectively reveal and visualize three-dimensional white matter trajectories; in combination with intraoperative navigation, it can help achieve maximum resection whilst minimizing neurological deficit. Since the reconstruction of DTI raw data largely relies on the technical engineering and anatomical experience of the operator; it is time-consuming and prone to operator-induced bias. Here, we develop new user-friendly software to automatically segment and reconstruct functionally active areas to facilitate precise surgery. In this pilot trial, we used an in-house developed software (DiffusionGo) specially designed for neurosurgeons, which integrated a reliable diffusion-weighted image (DWI) preprocessing pipeline that embedded several functionalities from software packages of FSL, MRtrix3, and ANTs. The preprocessing pipeline is as follows: 1. DWI denoising, 2. Gibbs-ringing removing, 3. Susceptibility distortion correction (process if opposite polarity data were acquired), 4. Eddy current and motion correction, and 5. Bias correction. Then, this fully automatic multiple assigned criteria algorithms for fiber tracking were used to achieve easy modeling and assist precision surgery. We demonstrated the application with three language-related cases in three different centers, including a left frontal, a left temporal, and a left frontal-temporal glioma, to achieve a favorable surgical outcome with language function preservation or recovery. The DTI tracking result using DiffusionGo showed robust consistency with direct cortical stimulation (DCS) finding. We believe that this fully automatic processing pipeline provides the neurosurgeon with a solution that may reduce time costs and operating errors and improve care quality and surgical procedure quality across different neurosurgical centers.

Original languageEnglish
Article number1089923
JournalFrontiers in Oncology
Volume13
DOIs
StatePublished - 2023

Keywords

  • awake neurosurgery
  • brain mapping
  • diffusion tensor imaging
  • functional neuroimaging
  • white matter tracts fiber tracking software for neurosurgeon

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Automatic bundle-specific white matter fiber tracking tool using diffusion tensor imaging data: A pilot trial in the application of language-related glioma resection'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this