Functional MRI in Epilepsy

In this chapter we attempt to provide a brief but comprehensive overview of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) as a method for the assessment of brain function and its utilization in the preoperative assessment of patients undergoing brain surgery. The first part of the chapter is devoted to the presentation of the basic principles governing fMRI; this is followed by the presentation of current clinical and research evidence on the implementation of this technique for the preoperative assessment of patients, with emphasis on patients with refractory epilepsy. Finally, a more detailed analysis of the technical aspects of fMRI acquisition with specific recommendations is provided for the interested reader.