KGMU Launches fMRI Services for Brain Patients

This technology is expected to significantly improve the treatment of conditions like epilepsy, stroke, brain injuries, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

King George's Medical University (KGMU) introduced advanced Functional MRI (fMRI) services, aimed at enhancing the diagnosis and treatment of patients with complex brain conditions, including brain tumors, trauma, and neurodegenerative diseases.

This new service was unveiled during the 38th Foundation Day celebrations of KGMU’s Radiodiagnosis Department.

fMRI Services for Research & Clinical Use

These fMRI services are currently available at Shatabdi Hospital Phase I for research purposes and are being offered free of charge to patients meeting specific medical criteria.

According to Prof Anit Parihar, the Head of KGMU's Radiodiagnosis Department, fMRI provides a more advanced imaging technique compared to conventional MRI. "fMRI helps map critical areas of the brain responsible for movement, sensation, and speech, which is particularly useful for pre-surgical planning," Prof. Parihar explained. This technology is expected to significantly improve the treatment of conditions like epilepsy, stroke, brain injuries, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

Prof Parihar also pointed out that fMRI could aid in evaluating psychiatric conditions, such as depression and schizophrenia, by providing better insights into brain activity associated with these disorders.

Advanced Imaging Techniques and Clinical Applications

The introduction of fMRI is part of KGMU's ongoing efforts to adopt advanced imaging technologies to enhance patient care. Dr Mona Tiwari from the Institute of Neurosciences, Kolkata, shared insights during the event on the basics of fMRI physics. She highlighted the role of Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) in detecting subtle brain injuries and its applications in managing conditions such as autism.

"DTI helps in identifying and managing neurological issues that may otherwise be missed using conventional imaging techniques," she said.

KGMU Vice-Chancellor, Prof Soniya Nityanand, commended the department for its progress in adopting cutting-edge medical technologies, highlighting the significance of the new fMRI service in improving the diagnosis and treatment of complex brain conditions.