Corticospinal tractography as a prognosticator for motor improvement after brainstem cavernoma resection

Abstract

Given their highly eloquent location, surgical morbidity of brainstem cavernomas (BSCs) remain significant. Currently, there are no clinical factors or imaging techniques that can reliably predict post-operative motor improvement. Diffusion-tensor imaging (DTI) might have some prognostic value. We present a case supporting the use of DTI as predictor of motor recovery following brainstem surgery.

Keywords::

• corticospinal tracts
• brainstem cavernoma
• diffusion-tension imaging
• tractography
• motor function

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.