Improving fMRI for planning epilepsy surgery

Motion Compensated fMRI for Pre-Surgical Planning in Epilepsy

NIH-funded research Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-11081006

This study is working on improving brain scans for people with epilepsy who haven't found relief from medication, making it easier for doctors to plan surgeries by reducing the effects of movement during the scans.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston Children's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11081006 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing functional MRI (fMRI) techniques to improve pre-surgical planning for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy. By addressing the challenges posed by patient motion during imaging, the study aims to increase the accuracy of brain activity localization, which is crucial for successful surgical interventions. The researchers will develop methods to compensate for motion artifacts, thereby improving the quality of the imaging data and reducing unnecessary costs associated with redundant imaging. This approach could lead to more tailored and effective surgical options for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy who are being considered for surgical resection of the epileptogenic zone.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have epilepsy or those whose condition is well-controlled with medication may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more precise surgical planning and better outcomes for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that improving imaging techniques can significantly enhance surgical outcomes, indicating a promising potential for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.