[985] Optimization of Advanced Neuroimaging Techniques
This research group is mainly in charge of developing clinical applications of new MRI and CT imaging techniques in neuroradiology in the following areas:
1. In epilepsy, the goal is to improve the 3T MRI technique in order to increase the diagnostic accuracy of cortical malformations, particularly in patients with recurrent epileptic seizures, in which electrical and imaging data fails to show focal lesions. In these patients, a 7 Tesla MRI (ultra high field) is performed in order to improve image quality, which allows superior analysis of the cerebral cortex. New sequences are tested and a new MRI contrast semiology is described.
2. We develop MRI sequences dedicated to improving the analysis of flow in cerebral aneurysms through the use of 4D flow on MRI.
We validate a new MRI technique that allows the study of the flow within cerebral aneurysms. This should make it possible to determine areas of weakness of the aneurysm wall, which are often the cause of rupture. This sequence should also help determine the influence of arterial stents on blood flow, particularly of the "flow diverter" type.
3. Finally, we are working on imaging techniques of the peripheral nervous system, which has seen considerable developments in recent years. Our group has been a pioneer in this field.
Currently, the microstructure of the nerve can be depicted with some new techniques such as diffusion tensor imaging. However, characterization of tumors of the peripheral nervous system can still be improved.
A project is being carried out at EPFL with 7 Tesla MRI on healthy volunteers to test the feasibility of this technique for the analysis of peripheral nerves.